scale
Ukulele fretboard diagram
D locrian major scale — ukulele chords and intervals
Harmonizing the D locrian major scale yields a paradoxical chord family that sounds simultaneously familiar and alien. The chords of D locrian major are D (1-3-♭5), E diminished, F# (1-2-♭5), G minor, Ab augmented, Bb augmented, C major. The major third against a Locrian base creates cognitive dissonance in the listener. These chords are used in experimental 20th-century compositions to explore the boundary between tonality and atonality. Commonly used in Experimental, Contemporary Classical, Avant-Garde. Notable players include Bela Bartok, Gyorgy Ligeti.
The D locrian major scale has the following degrees: 1 2 3 4 ♭5 ♭6 ♭7.
Intervals: W-W-H-H-W-W-W.
Diatonic chords: D (1-3-♭5), E diminished, F# (1-2-♭5), G minor, Ab augmented, Bb augmented, C major.
| Degrees | Chord |
|---|---|
| I | D (1-3-♭5) |
| ii | E diminished |
| iii | F# (1-2-♭5) |
| IV | G minor |
| V | Ab augmented |
| vi | Bb augmented |
| vii° | C major |
Degree-by-Degree Analysis
The I chord (D (1-3-♭5)) is the tonic — the gravitational center of the key. The ii chord (E diminished) is the minor subdominant, commonly used to approach the V chord. The iii chord (F# (1-2-♭5)) functions as a substitute for the I or vi. The IV chord (G minor) is the subdominant — it adds motion and moderate tension. The V chord (Ab augmented) is the dominant — it creates the strongest tension that wants to resolve to the I. The vi chord (Bb augmented) is the relative minor — it brings emotional color and depth. The vii° chord (C major) is the diminished — the most tense, rarely used alone, usually leading to the I.
This page focuses on the harmonic content — the chords built from each degree of the D locrian major scale. For fretboard patterns and fingering guides, see the scale page.
Use the interactive harmonizer above to explore triads, seventh chords, and chord voicings for composing with the D locrian major scale on ukulele.
Related Scales
How to Use This Scale
Use in experimental composition over polytonal or atonal passages. A tool for creating cognitive dissonance.