B Phrygian Mode
B – C – D – E – F# – G – A
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 B Phrygian mode is the third mode of the G Major scale. It has a minor sound with a distinctive flatted second degree, common in flamenco and metal.
B Phrygian Mode Notes
| Degree | Name | Note | Interval |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Tonic | B4 | P1 |
| ♭2 | Supertonic | C5 | m2 |
| ♭3 | Mediant | D5 | m3 |
| 4 | Subdominant | E5 | P4 |
| 5 | Dominant | F#5 | P5 |
| ♭6 | Submediant | G5 | m6 |
| ♭7 | Leading Tone | A5 | m7 |
| 8 | Octave | B5 | P8 |
B Phrygian Mode — Frequently Asked Questions
What notes are in the B Phrygian mode?
B Phrygian contains: B, C, D, E, F#, G, A. Third mode of G Major. The flatted 2nd (C) defines the exotic character.
How does B Phrygian differ from B Natural Minor?
One note: B Phrygian has C (minor 2nd), B Natural Minor has C# (major 2nd).
What is the parent major scale?
Third mode of G Major.
How is B Phrygian used in music?
Flamenco, metal. The B–C half step is common in heavy music.
What chords are built from B Phrygian?
Bm, C, D, Em, F#dim, G, Am. C Major → Bm is the cadence.
What songs use Phrygian?
White Rabbit, flamenco, metal.
Practice Tips
- Lower C# to C — hear the Phrygian exoticism.
- C Major → Bm (bII–i) is the cadence.
- B–C half step is iconic in metal.
- Practice over a Bm drone.
- Nearly all white keys plus F#.
- Compare with B Dorian and B Aeolian.