Bb Phrygian Mode
Bb – Cb – Db – Eb – F – Gb – Ab
Formula:H-W-W-W-H-W-W
Intervals:P1-m2-m3-P4-P5-m6-m7-P8
Scale Degrees:1-♭2-♭3-4-5-♭6-♭7-8
Introduction
The Bb Phrygian mode is the third mode of the Gb Major scale. It has a minor sound with a distinctive flatted second degree, common in flamenco and metal.
Bb Phrygian Mode Notes
| Degree | Name | Note | Interval |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Tonic | Bb4 | P1 |
| ♭2 | Supertonic | Cb5 | m2 |
| ♭3 | Mediant | Db5 | m3 |
| 4 | Subdominant | Eb5 | P4 |
| 5 | Dominant | F5 | P5 |
| ♭6 | Submediant | Gb5 | m6 |
| ♭7 | Leading Tone | Ab5 | m7 |
| 8 | Octave | Bb5 | P8 |
Bb Phrygian Mode — Frequently Asked Questions
What notes are in the Bb Phrygian mode?
Bb Phrygian contains: Bb, Cb, Db, Eb, F, Gb, Ab. Third mode of Gb Major.
How does Bb Phrygian differ from Bb Natural Minor?
One note: Bb Phrygian has Cb (minor 2nd), Bb Natural Minor has C (major 2nd).
What is the parent major scale?
Third mode of Gb Major.
How is Bb Phrygian used in music?
Flamenco, metal, exotic music. Cb Major → Bbm is the cadence.
What chords are built from Bb Phrygian?
Bbm, Cb, Db, Ebm, Fdim, Gb, Abm. bII–i cadence.
What songs use Phrygian?
White Rabbit, flamenco, metal.
Practice Tips
- Lower C to Cb (B) — hear the Phrygian transformation.
- Cb Major → Bbm is the signature cadence.
- Practice over a Bbm drone.
- Compare with Bb Dorian.
- Dark, exotic character.
- All flats — distinctive keyboard feel.