C# Six Tone Symmetric Mandolin Scale
Mandolin scale — fretboard diagramAdvanced
C# Six Tone Symmetric Scale — Notes and Intervals
The C# Six Tone Symmetric scale is a mathematical abstraction that divides the octave into six equal parts. On Mandolin, its notes are C#, D, F, F#, A, A#. 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: C#, D, F, F#, A, A#
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 C# 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 C# Six Tone Symmetric on Mandolin
Begin by locating C# 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 C# Six Tone Symmetric scale contains 3 sharps (C#, F#, A#). This scale does not follow a traditional major or minor key signature, so reading from sheet music may require accidentals.
Practice Routine
Practice the C# Six Tone Symmetric scale by playing it ascending with one rhythmic feel (straight eighth notes) and descending with another (swing or triplets) at 100 BPM. This dual approach trains both technical accuracy and rhythmic versatility with the 6 notes of the scale.
Experiment with simple two-chord vamps rooted on C# to let the characteristic intervals of the Six Tone Symmetric scale come through clearly. This scale is especially effective in avant-garde contexts.
Mandolin Tips
Practice the C# 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 C# Six Tone Symmetric scale contains 6 notes (C#, D, F, F#, A, A#). Use the interactive fretboard above to explore this scale on Mandolin with different tunings and fret ranges.
CAGED Positions & Patterns for C# Six Tone Symmetric
The C# 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 C# Six Tone Symmetric Further
- Browse chord progressions
- C# Six Tone Symmetric on Guitar
- C# Six Tone Symmetric on Ukulele
- C# Six Tone Symmetric on Bass
- C# Six Tone Symmetric on Piano