B Half-whole Diminished
Bass scale — fretboard diagramAdvanced
B Half-whole Diminished Scale — Notes and Intervals
The B Half-whole Diminished scale is a symmetrical scale that is an essential tool for jazz players. On Bass, the notes are B, C, D, D#, F, F#, G#, A. It provides a sophisticated dissonant crunch when played over dominant seventh chords, allowing for complex, high-tension solos that still feel structured. Commonly used in Jazz, Bebop, Fusion, Film Scores. Notable players include Charlie Parker, Joe Pass, Pat Martino, George Benson. Use over dominant 7th chords (7, 7b9, 13b9). The jazz standard for creating structured tension over dominant harmony. Works over 4 roots spaced a minor 3rd apart.
Notes: B, C, D, D#, F, F#, G#, A
Intervals: 1P, 2m, 3m, 3M, 4A, 5P, 6M, 7m
Degrees: 1 b2 b3 4 #5 6 7 b8
Formula: H-W-H-W-H-W-H-W
Number of notes: 8
Also known as: dominant diminished, messiaen's mode #2
Musical Character
The inverse of the whole-half diminished — starts with a half step. This version is the standard jazz choice over dominant 7th chords, providing a sophisticated 'crunch' that resolves beautifully.
Genres & Notable Artists
Genres: Jazz, Bebop, Fusion, Film Scores
Notable players: Charlie Parker, Joe Pass, Pat Martino, George Benson
How to Use the B Half-whole Diminished Scale
Use over dominant 7th chords (7, 7b9, 13b9). The jazz standard for creating structured tension over dominant harmony. Works over 4 roots spaced a minor 3rd apart.
Origin & Background
The dominant diminished scale in jazz theory. Provides 4 symmetrically equivalent chord tones and 4 tensions.
Related Scales
Chord Progressions Using This Scale
- I – ♯I°7 – ii – V (Diminished Cliché)Jazz / Soul — Nostalgic & Vintage
The B Half-whole Diminished scale contains 8 notes (B, C, D, D#, F, F#, G#, A). Use the interactive fretboard above to explore this scale on Bass with different tunings and fret ranges.