scale
Fretboard diagram
C# balinese scale — chords and intervals
Harmonizing the C# balinese scale yields a dark, meditative chord set from the Gamelan tradition. The chords of C# balinese are C# minor, D major, E augmented, F# minor, G# (1-3-♭5), A major, C (1-2-♭5). These chords create a shimmering, Southeast Asian harmonic world that feels ancient and spiritual. Use them for cultural scoring or to add a haunting, non-Western harmonic flavor to contemporary music. Commonly used in Gamelan, World, Ambient, Film Scores. Notable players include Colin McPhee, Steve Reich.
The C# balinese scale has the following degrees: 1 ♭2 ♭3 4 5 ♭6 7.
Intervals: H-W-W-W-H-3H-H.
Diatonic chords: C# minor, D major, E augmented, F# minor, G# (1-3-♭5), A major, C (1-2-♭5).
| Degrees | Chord |
|---|---|
| I | C# minor |
| ii | D major |
| iii | E augmented |
| IV | F# minor |
| V | G# (1-3-♭5) |
| vi | A major |
| vii° | C (1-2-♭5) |
Degree-by-Degree Analysis
The I chord (C# minor) is the tonic — the gravitational center of the key. The ii chord (D major) is the minor subdominant, commonly used to approach the V chord. The iii chord (E augmented) functions as a substitute for the I or vi. The IV chord (F# minor) is the subdominant — it adds motion and moderate tension. The V chord (G# (1-3-♭5)) is the dominant — it creates the strongest tension that wants to resolve to the I. The vi chord (A major) is the relative minor — it brings emotional color and depth. The vii° chord (C (1-2-♭5)) is the diminished — the most tense, rarely used alone, usually leading to the I.
This page focuses on the harmonic content — the chords built from each degree of the C# balinese scale. For fretboard patterns and fingering guides, see the scale page.
Use the interactive harmonizer above to explore triads, seventh chords, and chord voicings for composing with the C# balinese scale on guitar.
Related Scales
How to Use This Scale
Use over drones and sustained bass notes. Traditional Gamelan music doesn't use chords — the scale is inherently melodic and interlocking.