Interactive piano keyboard showing C# Phrygian scale degrees. Click highlighted keys to play.
C♯ phrygian (C♯, D, E, F♯, G♯, A, B) has three sharps in its key signature and its flattened 2nd (D natural) creates exotic tension against the C♯ root. It appears in jazz, progressive rock, and metal where a dark, Spanish-influenced sound is needed. C♯ phrygian connects to the A major key family.
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: C#m, D, E, F#m, G#dim, A, Bm. 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 three sharps in its key signature and its flattened 2nd (D natural) creates exotic tension against the C♯ root. It appears in jazz, progressive rock, and metal where a dark, Spanish-influenced sound is needed. C♯ phrygian connects to the A major key family.
What notes are in the C# Phrygian?
The C# Phrygian contains the notes: C#, D, E, F#, G#, A, B. 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: C#m, D, E, F#m, G#dim, A, Bm.
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 7 o'clock position. Related keys: Ab (dominant), F# (subdominant), Bb (relative minor), Eb (supertonic), B (subtonic).