Interactive piano keyboard showing C Phrygian scale degrees. Click highlighted keys to play.
C phrygian (C, D♭, E♭, F, G, A♭, B♭) has four flats in its key signature and its flattened 2nd (D♭) creates the dark, exotic tension that defines the phrygian sound. It is used in flamenco, metal, and film scoring for immediate dramatic atmosphere. C phrygian works over Cm chords where maximum darkness is desired.
The flattened 2nd gives Phrygian its Spanish and flamenco character — this half-step from the root creates immediate dark tension not found in any other standard mode. It is the go-to scale for exotic, ominous atmosphere.
The seven diatonic modes — parallel modes starting from the same root with different interval patterns. Each mode has a unique character derived from the major scale.
The diatonic chords in C Phrygian are: Cm, Db, Eb, Fm, Gdim, Ab, Bbm. These are the chords built naturally from each degree of the scale.
What is the Phrygian?
C phrygian (C, D♭, E♭, F, G, A♭, B♭) has four flats in its key signature and its flattened 2nd (D♭) creates the dark, exotic tension that defines the phrygian sound. It is used in flamenco, metal, and film scoring for immediate dramatic atmosphere. C phrygian works over Cm chords where maximum darkness is desired.
What notes are in the C Phrygian?
The C Phrygian contains the notes: C, Db, Eb, F, G, Ab, Bb. This is a 7-note scale starting from C.
How many chords does the C Phrygian have?
The C Phrygian produces 7 diatonic chords, one built on each degree of the scale: Cm, Db, Eb, Fm, Gdim, Ab, Bbm.
What is the formula for the Phrygian?
The Phrygian follows the interval formula: H-W-W-W-H-W-W (W = whole step, H = half step).
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Position in circle of fifths
C is at the 12 o'clock position. Related keys: G (dominant), F (subdominant), A (relative minor), D (supertonic), Bb (subtonic).