B Messiaen's Mode #5
Bass scale — fretboard diagramAdvanced
B Messiaen's Mode #5 Scale — Notes and Intervals
The B Messiaen's Mode #5 scale is a majestic limited-transposition scale that emphasizes large intervals. On Bass, it contains the notes B, C, E, F, F#, A#. It creates an atmosphere of immense power and grandeur, suitable for depicting grand spiritual or cosmic concepts. Commonly used in Contemporary Classical, Film Scores, Orchestral. Notable players include Olivier Messiaen. Use in orchestral and cinematic contexts for moments of grandeur. Best over sustained pedal tones.
Notes: B, C, E, F, F#, A#
Intervals: 1P, 2m, 4P, 4A, 5P, 7M
Degrees: 1 b2 3 #4 5 6
Formula: H-4-H-H-4-H
Number of notes: 6
Musical Character
Emphasizes large intervals creating an atmosphere of immense power and grandeur — used for depicting grand spiritual or cosmic concepts.
Genres & Notable Artists
Genres: Contemporary Classical, Film Scores, Orchestral
Notable players: Olivier Messiaen
How to Use the B Messiaen's Mode #5 Scale
Use in orchestral and cinematic contexts for moments of grandeur. Best over sustained pedal tones.
Origin & Background
Part of Messiaen's systematic exploration of limited transposition, used throughout his orchestral works.
Related Scales
The B Messiaen's Mode #5 scale contains 6 notes (B, C, E, F, F#, A#). Use the interactive fretboard above to explore this scale on Bass with different tunings and fret ranges.