G# Six Tone Symmetric Cavaquinho Scale
Cavaquinho scale — fretboard diagramAdvanced
G# Six Tone Symmetric Scale — Notes and Intervals
The G# Six Tone Symmetric scale is a mathematical abstraction that divides the octave into six equal parts. On Cavaquinho, its notes are G#, A, C, C#, E, F. It lacks a tonic or a home note, making it perfect for modern composers who want to avoid traditional keys and explore total tonal suspension. Commonly used in Contemporary Classical, Experimental, Avant-Garde. Notable players include Bela Bartok, Olivier Messiaen. Use for atonal or polytonal composition. Not chord-specific — this is a tool for breaking free of traditional harmony.
Notes: G#, A, C, C#, E, F
Intervals: 1P, 2m, 3M, 4P, 5A, 6M
Degrees: 1 b2 3 4 #5 6
Formula: H-WH-H-WH-H-WH
Number of notes: 6
Musical Character
Divides the octave into 6 mathematically equal parts — a scale without a home. Perfect for composers who want to intentionally avoid any tonal center.
Genres & Notable Artists
Genres: Contemporary Classical, Experimental, Avant-Garde
Notable players: Bela Bartok, Olivier Messiaen
How to Use the G# Six Tone Symmetric Scale
Use for atonal or polytonal composition. Not chord-specific — this is a tool for breaking free of traditional harmony.
Origin & Background
A mathematical abstraction used by 20th-century experimental composers like Bartok and Messiaen.
How to Play G# Six Tone Symmetric on Cavaquinho
Begin by locating G# on your instrument and play through the 6 notes of the Six Tone Symmetric scale slowly, ensuring each note rings clearly before increasing speed.
The G# Six Tone Symmetric scale contains 2 sharps (G#, C#). This scale does not follow a traditional major or minor key signature, so reading from sheet music may require accidentals.
Practice Routine
Set a metronome to 100 BPM and play the G# Six Tone Symmetric scale in groups of four notes, shifting the starting note each repetition. This builds muscle memory across the entire scale range. After a week, try improvising short 4-bar phrases using only these notes.
Experiment with simple two-chord vamps rooted on G# to let the characteristic intervals of the Six Tone Symmetric scale come through clearly. This scale is especially effective in experimental contexts.
Cavaquinho Tips
Practice the G# Six Tone Symmetric scale slowly and evenly on your instrument, focusing on tone quality for each of the 6 notes before building speed. Aim for a abstract quality in your phrasing to match the natural character of this scale.
Related Scales
The G# Six Tone Symmetric scale contains 6 notes (G#, A, C, C#, E, F). Use the interactive fretboard above to explore this scale on Cavaquinho with different tunings and fret ranges.
CAGED Positions & Patterns for G# Six Tone Symmetric
The G# Six Tone Symmetric scale can be played in 5 CAGED positions across the fretboard, each based on an open chord shape (C, A, G, E, D). As a 6-note pentatonic scale, 2-notes-per-string patterns are the most ergonomic way to traverse the fretboard. Use the pattern selector above to isolate each position.
Explore G# Six Tone Symmetric Further
- Browse chord progressions
- G# Six Tone Symmetric on Guitar
- G# Six Tone Symmetric on Ukulele
- G# Six Tone Symmetric on Bass
- G# Six Tone Symmetric on Piano