F Locrian Mode

F – Gb – Ab – Bb – Cb – Db – Eb
Formula:H-W-W-H-W-W-W
Intervals:P1-m2-m3-P4-d5-m6-m7-P8
Scale Degrees:1-♭2-♭3-4-♭5-♭6-♭7-8

Introduction

The F Locrian mode is the seventh mode of the Gb Major scale. It has a diminished quality with flatted second and fifth degrees, the most dissonant of the seven modes.

F Locrian Mode Notes

DegreeNameNoteInterval
1TonicF4P1
♭2SupertonicGb4m2
♭3MediantAb4m3
4SubdominantBb4P4
♭5DominantCb5d5
♭6SubmediantDb5m6
♭7Leading ToneEb5m7
8OctaveF5P8

F Locrian Mode — Frequently Asked Questions

What notes are in the F Locrian mode?

F Locrian contains: F, Gb, Ab, Bb, Cb, Db, Eb. Seventh mode of Gb Major.

How does F Locrian differ from F Natural Minor?

Flatted 2nd (Gb) and flatted 5th (Cb).

What is the parent major scale?

Seventh mode of Gb Major.

How is F Locrian used in music?

Over Fm7b5. Metal, progressive jazz.

What chords are built from F Locrian?

Fdim, Gb, Abm, Bbm, Cb, Db, Ebm.

What songs use Locrian?

Progressive metal, experimental jazz.

Practice Tips

  • Diminished tonic — most unstable.
  • Over Fm7b5 in jazz.
  • The flatted 5th (Cb/B) defines Locrian.
  • Compare with F Phrygian.
  • Metal riffs on F–Gb half step.
  • All flats — distinctive shape.