G Locrian Mode
G – Ab – Bb – C – Db – Eb – F
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 G Locrian mode is the seventh mode of the Ab Major scale. It has a diminished quality with flatted second and fifth degrees, the most dissonant of the seven modes.
G Locrian Mode Notes
| Degree | Name | Note | Interval |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Tonic | G4 | P1 |
| ♭2 | Supertonic | Ab4 | m2 |
| ♭3 | Mediant | Bb4 | m3 |
| 4 | Subdominant | C5 | P4 |
| ♭5 | Dominant | Db5 | d5 |
| ♭6 | Submediant | Eb5 | m6 |
| ♭7 | Leading Tone | F5 | m7 |
| 8 | Octave | G5 | P8 |
G Locrian Mode — Frequently Asked Questions
What notes are in the G Locrian mode?
G Locrian contains: G, Ab, Bb, C, Db, Eb, F. Seventh mode of Ab Major. Flatted 2nd and 5th.
How does G Locrian differ from G Natural Minor?
Two notes: flatted 2nd (Ab) and flatted 5th (Db).
What is the parent major scale?
Seventh mode of Ab Major.
How is G Locrian used in music?
Over Gm7b5. Jazz, metal, progressive.
What chords are built from G Locrian?
Gdim, Ab, Bbm, Cm, Db, Eb, Fm.
What songs use Locrian?
Progressive metal, experimental jazz.
Practice Tips
- Diminished tonic — nothing resolves.
- Over Gm7b5 in jazz — primary application.
- The flatted 5th (Db) separates Locrian from Phrygian.
- Compare G Locrian with G Phrygian.
- Metal riffs on G–Ab half step.
- The darkest G mode.