D Phrygian Mode
D – Eb – F – G – A – Bb – C
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 D Phrygian mode is the third mode of the Bb Major scale. It has a minor sound with a distinctive flatted second degree, common in flamenco and metal.
D Phrygian Mode Notes
| Degree | Name | Note | Interval |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Tonic | D4 | P1 |
| ♭2 | Supertonic | Eb4 | m2 |
| ♭3 | Mediant | F4 | m3 |
| 4 | Subdominant | G4 | P4 |
| 5 | Dominant | A4 | P5 |
| ♭6 | Submediant | Bb4 | m6 |
| ♭7 | Leading Tone | C5 | m7 |
| 8 | Octave | D5 | P8 |
D Phrygian Mode — Frequently Asked Questions
What notes are in the D Phrygian mode?
D Phrygian contains: D, Eb, F, G, A, Bb, C. Third mode of Bb Major. The flatted 2nd (Eb) defines the exotic character.
How does D Phrygian differ from D Natural Minor?
One note: D Phrygian has Eb (minor 2nd), D Natural Minor has E (major 2nd).
What is the parent major scale?
Third mode of Bb Major.
How is D Phrygian used in music?
Flamenco, metal, Middle Eastern music. Works over Dm with a bII (Eb Major) cadence.
What chords are built from D Phrygian?
Dm, Eb, F, Gm, Adim, Bb, Cm. Eb Major → Dm is the Phrygian cadence.
What songs use Phrygian?
White Rabbit, flamenco, metal.
Practice Tips
- Lower E to Eb — hear the Phrygian exoticism.
- Eb Major → Dm (bII–i) is the quintessential cadence.
- Practice over a Dm drone for flamenco atmosphere.
- Compare D Phrygian with D Dorian — very different moods from similar modes.
- Phrygian is darker than Aeolian.
- Metal riff potential with the Eb–D half step.