E Messiaen's Mode #7
Piano scale diagramAdvanced
E Messiaen's Mode #7 Scale — Notes and Intervals
The E Messiaen's Mode #7 scale is a nearly-chromatic scale that serves as the parent for many other symmetrical systems. On Piano, the notes are E, F, F#, G, A, A#, B, C, C#, D#. It represents divine authority and the vast, complex forces of the universe in Messiaen's musical language. Commonly used in Contemporary Classical, Experimental, Avant-Garde. Notable players include Olivier Messiaen. Use in complex, multi-layered compositions. Its near-chromatic density provides maximum harmonic flexibility.
Notes: E, F, F#, G, A, A#, B, C, C#, D#
Intervals: 1P, 2m, 2M, 3m, 4P, 4A, 5P, 6m, 6M, 7M
Degrees: 1 b2 3 b4 5 #6 7 b8 9 10
Formula: H-H-H-W-H-H-H-H-W-H
Number of notes: 10
Musical Character
A nearly-chromatic scale that serves as the parent for many other symmetrical systems. Represents 'divine authority and the vast forces of the universe' in Messiaen's musical theology.
Genres & Notable Artists
Genres: Contemporary Classical, Experimental, Avant-Garde
Notable players: Olivier Messiaen
How to Use the E Messiaen's Mode #7 Scale
Use in complex, multi-layered compositions. Its near-chromatic density provides maximum harmonic flexibility.
Origin & Background
The most complex of Messiaen's modes, representing the fullness of divine creation in his musical-theological system.
Related Scales
The E Messiaen's Mode #7 scale contains 10 notes (E, F, F#, G, A, A#, B, C, C#, D#). Use the interactive piano diagram above to explore this scale on Piano.