Interactive piano keyboard showing F Phrygian scale degrees. Click highlighted keys to play.
F phrygian (F, G♭, A♭, B♭, C, D♭, E♭) has five flats in its key signature and its flattened 2nd (G♭) creates a dark, weighty tension. It is used in metal, progressive rock, and film scoring where a heavy, ominous atmosphere is needed. F phrygian works over Fm chords for maximum harmonic darkness.
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 F Phrygian are: Fm, Gb, Ab, Bbm, Cdim, Db, Ebm. These are the chords built naturally from each degree of the scale.
What is the Phrygian?
F phrygian (F, G♭, A♭, B♭, C, D♭, E♭) has five flats in its key signature and its flattened 2nd (G♭) creates a dark, weighty tension. It is used in metal, progressive rock, and film scoring where a heavy, ominous atmosphere is needed. F phrygian works over Fm chords for maximum harmonic darkness.
What notes are in the F Phrygian?
The F Phrygian contains the notes: F, Gb, Ab, Bb, C, Db, Eb. This is a 7-note scale starting from F.
How many chords does the F Phrygian have?
The F Phrygian produces 7 diatonic chords, one built on each degree of the scale: Fm, Gb, Ab, Bbm, Cdim, Db, Ebm.
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
F is at the 11 o'clock position. Related keys: C (dominant), Bb (subdominant), D (relative minor), G (supertonic), Eb (subtonic).