A Phrygian Dominant scale
The A Phrygian Dominant scale is a 7-note phrygian dominant scale built on the root A. Its notes are A, B♭, C♯, D, E, F and G. Phrygian with a major third — flamenco, klezmer and middle-eastern signature sound. This page covers the formula, fingerings, diatonic chords and common progressions that make A Phrygian Dominant a powerful tool for improvising and composing.
Phrygian dominant is the signature scale of flamenco, klezmer and middle-eastern modes. It also appears in metal solos for an exotic, aggressive sound. Built on the root A, the scale takes on the specific colour and pitch range of that key — making it especially useful in genres and registers where A is a comfortable tonal centre.
Formula & step pattern
The A Phrygian Dominant scale follows the fifth mode of harmonic minor: H-W+H-H-W-H-W-W with a major third over a flat second. Step pattern: H - W+H - H - W - H - W - W. Intervals from the root: 1P · 2m · 3M · 4P · 5P · 6m · 7m. Memorising the formula lets you transpose the scale to any other root note quickly.
A Phrygian Dominant on the piano
A Phrygian Dominant on the guitar
A Phrygian Dominant on the staff
Hear the A Phrygian Dominant scale
Notes of the A Phrygian Dominant scale
| Degree | Interval | Semitones | Note |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 1P | 0 | A |
| 2 | 2m | 1 | B♭(Bb) |
| 3 | 3M | 4 | C♯(C#) |
| 4 | 4P | 5 | D |
| 5 | 5P | 7 | E |
| 6 | 6m | 8 | F |
| 7 | 7m | 10 | G |
Diatonic chords of A Phrygian Dominant
These are the chords that naturally form on each degree of the scale. Click a chord to open its dedicated page.
How to use the A Phrygian Dominant scale
The diatonic chords of A Phrygian Dominant are: I = A, II = B♭, iii° = C♯°, iv = Dm, v° = E°, VI+ = F+, vii = Gm. These seven chords belong naturally to the key and are the safest harmonic vocabulary when writing songs in A Phrygian Dominant. Click any chord below to open its full diagram and progressions.
Phrygian dominant is the signature scale of flamenco, klezmer and middle-eastern modes. It also appears in metal solos for an exotic, aggressive sound.
Practice tips
Spend time on the half-step move from root to flat second; this interval is the most recognisable feature of phrygian dominant.
Famous songs in this key
A Phrygian Dominant appears throughout phrygian dominant is the signature scale of flamenco, klezmer and middle-eastern modes. it also appears in metal solos for an exotic, aggressive sound. Listening to music in this scale and transcribing short phrases is the fastest way to absorb its sound.
Scales related to A Phrygian Dominant
Once you are comfortable with A Phrygian Dominant, explore related scales to expand your vocabulary. The scales below share notes, modes or tonal centres with A Phrygian Dominant and are a natural next step in your study.
Frequently asked questions
What notes are in the A Phrygian Dominant scale?
What is the formula for the A Phrygian Dominant scale?
Is A Phrygian Dominant a major or minor scale?
What chords belong to the A Phrygian Dominant scale?
Which genres use A Phrygian Dominant?
How do I practise the A Phrygian Dominant scale?
Take A Phrygian Dominant into your music
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