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scale

E♭ Harmonic Major

The E♭ Harmonic Major scale modifies E♭ Major by lowering the sixth degree from C natural to C♭, creating an augmented second interval between C♭ and D. This exotic alteration gives the scale a distinctive character popular with alto saxophone players and in contemporary jazz composition. Related to E♭ Harmonic Minor, this scale bridges major tonality with Middle Eastern flavor.

Symbol
E♭ harmonic
Key
e flat
Scale Type
harmonic major
Cardinality
heptatonic
Number of Notes
8
Notes
E♭, F, G, A♭, B♭, C♭, D, E♭
Intervals from Root
M2, M3, P4, P5, m6, M7

The C♭ to D augmented second defines E♭ harmonic major's unique sound, creating dramatic melodic leaps and harmonic tension. Jazz musicians frequently use this scale over E♭maj7(♯5) chords, while film composers employ it for scenes requiring emotional complexity. The scale's three-flat signature makes it particularly accessible for alto saxophonists and other E♭ instruments, who find its exotic intervals naturally under their fingers for improvisation and composition.

Chords in E♭ Harmonic Major

Explore E♭ Harmonic Major scale piano chords.

D Diminished

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Sheet Music