THEORY HELPERD Locrian ♮6 Scale
Half-diminished sound
What is the D Locrian ♮6 Scale?
Locrian ♮6 is the 2nd mode of melodic minor, offering a sophisticated approach to half-diminished (m7b5) chords. The natural 6th provides relief from pure Locrian's extreme darkness while maintaining the essential b2 and b5.
Interval Pattern: H-W-W-H-3H-H-W
Scale Notes and Intervals
D Locrian ♮6
DarkD 1
Eb 2
F 3
G 4
Ab 5
B 6
C 7
Notes:
D -Eb -F -G -Ab -B -C
Intervals:
HWWHAH W
Keyboard Visualization
How to Play D Locrian ♮6 on Piano
Scale Properties
Mood
DarkCharacter
Half-diminished soundGenres
Jazz, MetalNotes in Scale
7 notes: D, Eb, F, G, Ab, B, CCategory
JazzIntervals
H-W-W-H-3H-H-WHistory and Origins
The Background of the Locrian ♮6 Scale
Developed as jazz musicians sought more melodic options for half-diminished chords. It provides a smoother, more singable alternative to pure Locrian while still fitting the chord structure.
Musical Characteristics
Key Features of the D Locrian ♮6 Scale
- Locrian with natural 6th
- Less dark than pure Locrian
- 2nd mode of melodic minor
- Primary choice for m7b5 chords
Famous Songs Using This Scale
Popular Tracks in D Locrian ♮6
- Autumn Leaves (over the ii chord)
- Stella by Starlight (half-diminished sections)
- Countless jazz standards
Playing Tips
How to Practice the D Locrian ♮6 Scale
Think melodic minor up a half step. The natural 6th makes this scale much more melodic than pure Locrian. This is THE scale for half-diminished chords in jazz standards.
Circle of Fifths Position
D in the Circle of Fifths
Major
Minor
Selected