What is the D Prometheus Scale?

The Prometheus scale (also called Scriabin's Mystic Chord as a scale) is a whole-tone scale variant created by Russian composer Alexander Scriabin. It produces a mystical, otherworldly quality central to his late works.

Interval Pattern: W-W-W-3H-H-W

Scale Notes and Intervals

D Prometheus

Mystical
D 1
E 2
F# 3
Ab 4
B 5
C 6
Notes:
D -E -F# -Ab -B -C
Intervals:
WWWAH W

Keyboard Visualization

How to Play D Prometheus on Piano

Scale Properties

Mood

Mystical

Character

Scriabin, whole tone variant

Genres

Classical, Ambient

Notes in Scale

6 notes: D, E, F#, Ab, B, C

Category

Exotic

Intervals

W-W-W-3H-H-W

History and Origins

The Background of the Prometheus Scale

Created by Alexander Scriabin for his "Prometheus: The Poem of Fire" (1910). Scriabin associated this scale with mystical concepts, synesthesia (seeing colors with music), and spiritual transcendence.

Musical Characteristics

Key Features of the D Prometheus Scale

  • Six-note whole tone variant
  • Scriabin's mystic sound
  • Associated with synesthesia
  • Creates otherworldly atmosphere

Famous Songs Using This Scale

Popular Tracks in D Prometheus

  • Prometheus: The Poem of Fire - Scriabin
  • Late Scriabin piano works
  • Modern mystical compositions

Playing Tips

How to Practice the D Prometheus Scale

Think of it as a modified whole tone scale. The tritone and major 9th are important colors. Use for creating transcendent, mystical atmospheres. Perfect for ambient and new age contexts.

Circle of Fifths Position

D in the Circle of Fifths

CGDAEBF#DbAbEbBbFAmEmBmF#mC#mAbmD#mBbmFmCmGmDmDminor
Major
Minor
Selected

Transpose to Other Keys

Prometheus Scale in All 12 Keys

Related Scales

Similar Scales in the Key of D

Scale Diagram

D Prometheus Keyboard Diagram

D Prometheus scale shown on piano keyboard with notes D, E, F#, Ab, B, C highlighted