D Messiaen's Mode #6
Piano scale diagramAdvanced
D Messiaen's Mode #6 Scale — Notes and Intervals
The D Messiaen's Mode #6 scale is a symmetrical scale associated with radiance and light. On Piano, its notes are D, E, F#, G, G#, A#, C, C#. It creates a uniform coloration that transcends traditional keys, making the music sound brilliant and enlightened. Commonly used in Contemporary Classical, Sacred Music, Experimental. Notable players include Olivier Messiaen. Use for creating a sense of radiant, enlightened calm. Best in sustained, atmospheric contexts.
Notes: D, E, F#, G, G#, A#, C, C#
Intervals: 1P, 2M, 3M, 4P, 4A, 5A, 6A, 7M
Degrees: 1 2 3 4 #5 #6 #7 8
Formula: W-W-H-H-W-W-H-H
Number of notes: 8
Musical Character
Associated with radiance and light in Messiaen's system — creates a uniform, brilliant coloration that transcends traditional keys.
Genres & Notable Artists
Genres: Contemporary Classical, Sacred Music, Experimental
Notable players: Olivier Messiaen
How to Use the D Messiaen's Mode #6 Scale
Use for creating a sense of radiant, enlightened calm. Best in sustained, atmospheric contexts.
Origin & Background
Used by Messiaen in his sacred music to represent divine light and spiritual illumination.
Related Scales
The D Messiaen's Mode #6 scale contains 8 notes (D, E, F#, G, G#, A#, C, C#). Use the interactive piano diagram above to explore this scale on Piano.