Phrygian Dominant Scales on Piano

The Phrygian Dominant scale is the fifth mode of the harmonic minor scale — a seven-note scale that combines the dark, flat-second opening of Phrygian with a major third that gives it a distinctly Spanish, Middle Eastern, and flamenco character. It is the go-to scale for improvising over dominant chords that resolve to minor, and the source of the iconic "Spanish cadence" sound.

Formula: H–WH–H–W–H–W–W (half–whole+half–half–whole–half–whole–whole)

Intervals: P1–m2–M3–P4–P5–m6–m7–P8

Scale degrees: 1–♭2–3–4–5–♭6–♭7

Sound: Spanish, Middle Eastern, dramatic, exotic

Also known as: Spanish Phrygian, Freygish (in klezmer), Hijaz (in Arabic maqam), Ahava Rabbah

The augmented second is the signature: The interval between ♭2 and 3 is an augmented second (3 half steps) — the same exotic leap found in harmonic minor. That single interval gives the scale its unmistakable Middle Eastern and flamenco flavor, distinguishing it from the plain Phrygian mode.