Understanding the Phrygian Mode
The Phrygian mode is the third mode of the major scale. It can be formed by starting on the third degree of any major scale. For example, the E Phrygian mode is formed by playing the notes of the C major scale but starting on E.
The construction of the Phrygian Mode since it starts on the 3rd interval will be H-W-W-W-H-W-W.
Phrygian Mode has a distinctly exotic feel mainly because of its minor second interval (Half Step). It has been described as dark or medieval. Many different styles use this mode. Every thing from Metal to Classical. I will provide a list of examples at the end of this Lesson.
Diatonic Chords in E Phrygian
Some common chord progressions that work well with Phrygian.
Since Phrygian tends to be dark, adding tension is a great tool. Thats not to say there cant be bright elements as well but some very popular songs add tension as part of their story. One way to maintain the Phrygian feel is to make sure that the chords used in the progression contain the minor 2nd (bII) note in them. As you can see in the previous diagram that would be II-V-vii . Another great to is to use the root note as a pedal note as you can see In the following instance.
Melody Exercise and Example
Audio clip for above exercise.
Backing Track for above Exercise
The following are also some great chord progressions to use with Phrygian Mode.
- i-II
- i-II-i-VII
- i-iv-III-II
- i-vii6-II-III7
Styles Of Music Using Phrygian
Flamenco
The Phrygian mode is a staple in Flamenco music. The distinct sound of Flamenco guitar often employs Phrygian progressions and melodies.
Samples
- Jesse Cook
- Ben Woods – Maleguena
Rock and Metal
Some subgenres of rock and metal, particularly those with a darker or more exotic sound, use the Phrygian mode. It’s popular for creating riffs and solos that have a mysterious or Eastern feel.
Samples
- Iron Maiden – Powerslave
- Wherever I may Roam – Metallica
Jazz and Fusion
Jazz musicians sometimes use the Phrygian mode for improvisation, especially in modal jazz and fusion styles, to add variety and exotic flavor to their music.
Examples
- Jazz and Fusion Backing Track
- Al di Meola “Race with the Devil on a Spanish Highway”
- Wayne Shorter “Speak no Evil”
- Miles Davis “Nardis”
World Music
Various forms of world music, especially from regions like the Middle East and Eastern Europe, use scales and modes similar to Phrygian, contributing to their characteristic sounds.
- There are many examples of Phrygian major and dominant or variations of each in eastern music.
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