C Phrygian Dominant

mode

At a Glance

Formula:: C phrygian-dominant
Notes:: C, C#, E, F, G, G#, A#

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Fretboard

What It Is

The 5th mode of harmonic minor - Phrygian with a major 3rd instead of a minor 3rd, giving it a dominant-quality triad with Phrygian's tense flat 2 and flat 6. Notes: C, Db, E, F, G, Ab, Bb.

How It Functions

A dominant-sounding mode (major 3rd, minor 7th) built on the 5th degree of a harmonic minor key; frequently the scale played over that key's V chord.

Mood & Character

Exotic and intense - a dramatic Middle Eastern/flamenco color, tenser than plain Phrygian because its major 3rd clashes with the flat 2nd and flat 6th.

Real Song Examples

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