THEORY HELPERB Bebop Major Scale
Jazz, smooth chromatic
What is the B Bebop Major Scale?
The Bebop Major scale adds a chromatic passing tone between the 5th and 6th degrees of the major scale. Like its dominant cousin, this ensures smooth eighth note lines with chord tones on beats over major chords.
Interval Pattern: W-W-H-W-H-H-W-H
Scale Notes and Intervals
B Bebop Major
SwingingB 1
C# 2
D# 3
E 4
F# 5
G 6
G# 7
A# 8
Notes:
B -C# -D# -E -F# -G -G# -A#
Intervals:
WWHWHHW H
Keyboard Visualization
How to Play B Bebop Major on Piano
Scale Properties
Mood
SwingingCharacter
Jazz, smooth chromaticGenres
Jazz, BebopNotes in Scale
8 notes: B, C#, D#, E, F#, G, G#, A#Category
BebopIntervals
W-W-H-W-H-H-W-HHistory and Origins
The Background of the Bebop Major Scale
Another innovation from the bebop era, this scale was developed to maintain the rhythmic logic of bebop playing over major 7th and major 6th chords. Barry Harris became its primary teacher and advocate.
Musical Characteristics
Key Features of the B Bebop Major Scale
- Major scale with added #5
- Chord tones on downbeats
- Smooth chromatic movement
- Essential for major chord bebop lines
Famous Songs Using This Scale
Popular Tracks in B Bebop Major
- Have You Met Miss Jones (bebop arrangement)
- All the Things You Are (bebop lines)
- Stella by Starlight (over major sections)
Playing Tips
How to Practice the B Bebop Major Scale
The chromatic note between 5 and 6 is the key. Start phrases on chord tones and let the scale do the work. Essential for playing over major 7th and 6th chords in bebop style.
Circle of Fifths Position
B in the Circle of Fifths
Major
Minor
Selected