Exotic
Phrygian Dominant Scale
The 5th mode of the harmonic minor scale. Has a strong Middle-Eastern, Spanish Flamenco, or Jewish character due to its augmented 2nd.
Hear the Phrygian Dominant Scale
How to Identify It
Exotic and instantly recognisable — the flat 2nd and augmented 2nd create a distinctive Eastern sound. Think of Hava Nagila or Spanish Flamenco.
Famous Examples
- Hava Nagila — traditional Jewish
- Flamenco music — Spanish tradition
- Miserlou variations
- Satriani — various
Phrygian Dominant in All 12 Keys
Often Confused With
About the Phrygian Dominant Scale
The phrygian dominant scale is a exotic scale built from the interval pattern 1, 3, 1, 2, 1, 2, 2 (in whole and half steps). The 5th mode of the harmonic minor scale. Has a strong Middle-Eastern, Spanish Flamenco, or Jewish character due to its augmented 2nd.
To recognise the phrygian dominant scale reliably by ear, focus on its characteristic mood — exotic, Middle-Eastern, Spanish, dramatic. Use the player above to hear it in all 12 keys, and the recognition trainer to test yourself against a mixed set of scales.