Interactive piano keyboard showing E Phrygian scale degrees. Click highlighted keys to play.
E phrygian (E, F, G, A, B, C, D) uses only white keys on piano and its flattened 2nd (F) creates the signature darkness of flamenco and metal. It is the most common phrygian key on guitar, where the open low E string provides a powerful root. Metallica, Al Di Meola, and countless flamenco guitarists use E phrygian extensively.
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 E Phrygian are: Em, F, G, Am, Bdim, C, Dm. These are the chords built naturally from each degree of the scale.
What is the Phrygian?
E phrygian (E, F, G, A, B, C, D) uses only white keys on piano and its flattened 2nd (F) creates the signature darkness of flamenco and metal. It is the most common phrygian key on guitar, where the open low E string provides a powerful root. Metallica, Al Di Meola, and countless flamenco guitarists use E phrygian extensively.
What notes are in the E Phrygian?
The E Phrygian contains the notes: E, F, G, A, B, C, D. This is a 7-note scale starting from E.
How many chords does the E Phrygian have?
The E Phrygian produces 7 diatonic chords, one built on each degree of the scale: Em, F, G, Am, Bdim, C, Dm.
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
E is at the 4 o'clock position. Related keys: B (dominant), A (subdominant), C# (relative minor), F# (supertonic), D (subtonic).