A Messiaen's Mode #7 Guitar Scale
Guitar scale in 7-string tuning — fretboard diagram
A Messiaen's Mode #7 in 7-string — Notes and Intervals
The A Messiaen's Mode #7 scale is a nearly-chromatic scale that serves as the parent for many other symmetrical systems. On Guitar, the notes are A, Bb, B, C, D, D#, E, F, F#, G#. 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: A, Bb, B, C, D, D#, E, F, F#, G#
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
Tuning: 7-string (B-E-A-D-G-B-E)
About 7-string Tuning
The 7-string guitar adds a low B string below the standard 6-string tuning (B-E-A-D-G-B-E), extending the instrument's range into bass territory. This extra low end has become essential in progressive metal, djent, and modern heavy music, enabling crushing low-end riffs while maintaining access to standard guitar voicings on the upper strings.
Pioneered by jazz guitarist George Van Eps and later brought into the metal mainstream by Steve Vai and Korn, the 7-string guitar has become a staple of modern heavy music. Players like Tosin Abasi, Misha Mansoor, and John Petrucci have pushed the instrument's capabilities into new territory, using the extended range for complex harmonic progressions, polyrhythmic riffs, and sweeping arpeggios that span an enormous tonal range.
Notable artists: Dream Theater, Periphery, Animals as Leaders, Korn, Meshuggah
Best for: Progressive metal riffs, extended-range chord voicings, djent rhythms, and jazz fusion harmony
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.