Gb Phrygian Mode

Gb – Abb – Bbb – Cb – Db – Ebb – Fb
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 Gb Phrygian mode is the third mode of the Ebb Major scale. It has a minor sound with a distinctive flatted second degree, common in flamenco and metal.

Gb Phrygian Mode Notes

DegreeNameNoteInterval
1TonicGb4P1
♭2SupertonicAbb4m2
♭3MediantBbb4m3
4SubdominantCb5P4
5DominantDb5P5
♭6SubmediantEbb5m6
♭7Leading ToneFb5m7
8OctaveGb5P8

Gb Phrygian Mode — Frequently Asked Questions

What notes are in the Gb Phrygian mode?

Gb Phrygian contains: Gb, Abb, Bbb, Cb, Db, Ebb, Fb. Third mode of Ebb Major. Enharmonic of F# Phrygian.

How does Gb Phrygian differ from Gb Natural Minor?

Gb Phrygian has Abb (minor 2nd), Gb Natural Minor has Ab (major 2nd).

What is the parent major scale?

Third mode of Ebb Major (enharmonically D Major).

How is Gb Phrygian used in music?

Enharmonic F# Phrygian is more common. Flamenco, metal.

What chords are built from Gb Phrygian?

Gbm, Abb, Bbb, Cbm, Dbdim, Ebb, Fbm. bII–i cadence defines the sound.

What songs use Phrygian?

White Rabbit, flamenco, metal.

Practice Tips

  • Gb Phrygian and F# Phrygian are enharmonic.
  • Translate to F# Phrygian for easier reading.
  • The flatted 2nd defines the sound.
  • bII–i cadence is the signature.
  • Practice over a Gbm drone.
  • Dark, exotic character.