B Pelog
Bass scale — fretboard diagramIntermediate
B Pelog Scale — Notes and Intervals
The B Pelog scale is the primary modal system of Indonesian Gamelan music. On Bass, its notes are B, C, D, F#, G. Unlike Western scales, it uses intervals that create a unique, shimmering harmonic world that feels ancient and deeply spiritual. Commonly used in Gamelan, World, Ambient, Experimental. Notable players include Steve Reich, Debussy, Lou Harrison. Use over drones and ostinato patterns. Gamelan music is built on interlocking melodic patterns rather than chord progressions.
Notes: B, C, D, F#, G
Intervals: 1P, 2m, 3m, 5P, 6m
Degrees: 1 b2 b3 4 b5
Formula: H-W-4-H-4
Number of notes: 5
Musical Character
The primary modal system of Indonesian Gamelan — its intervals are fundamentally different from Western scales, creating a shimmering, otherworldly harmonic world.
Genres & Notable Artists
Genres: Gamelan, World, Ambient, Experimental
Notable players: Steve Reich, Debussy, Lou Harrison
How to Use the B Pelog Scale
Use over drones and ostinato patterns. Gamelan music is built on interlocking melodic patterns rather than chord progressions.
Origin & Background
The primary scale system of Javanese and Balinese Gamelan orchestras, dating back over a thousand years.
Related Scales
The B Pelog scale contains 5 notes (B, C, D, F#, G). Use the interactive fretboard above to explore this scale on Bass with different tunings and fret ranges.