Phrygian Mode
Modal Structure
The Phrygian mode has a dark, exotic quality due to its flat 2nd degree. It is characteristic of Spanish flamenco music and heavy metal, creating an intense, mysterious atmosphere.
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Formula | H-W-W-W-H-W-W |
| C Phrygian Mode Notes | C, C#, D#, F, G, G#, A# |
| Scale Degrees | 1 - ♭2 - ♭3 - 4 - 5 - ♭6 - ♭7 |
| Parent Scale | C Phrygian is the 3rd mode of Ab Major |
Characteristic Notes & Sound
- Characteristic Note
- Minor 2nd (flat 2nd — the Phrygian half-step)
- Avoid Note
- Major 7th (use Bb instead)
- Tonal Color
- Dark, Spanish, exotic — flamenco and metal
Genre Context & Song Examples
Phrygian mode is central to flamenco guitar and Spanish classical music. In metal and rock, the b2 creates a dark, exotic tension.
- White Zombie — Rob Zombie
- Wherever I May Roam — Metallica
Diatonic Chords
| Degree | C Phrygian Mode Chord | Triad Quality |
|---|---|---|
| I | C4 Minor | Minor |
| II | C♯4 Major | Major |
| III | D♯4 Major | Major |
| IV | F4 Minor | Minor |
| V | G4 Diminished | Diminished |
| VI | G♯4 Major | Major |
| VII | A♯4 Minor | Minor |
Related Scales & Keys
Full Phrygian Mode scale reference — all 12 keys with note names, diatonic chords, and key signatures.
Major Scale reference — see how modes relate to the parent major scale.