Byzantine Scale

The (Byzantine) scale is the same as the Gypsy scale and the double harmonic scale. It is also related to the Phrygian dominant scale.

The (Byzantine) scale is built of seven notes giving the interval formula : 1 (tonic), b2 (minor second), 3 (major third), 4 (perfect fourth), 5 (perfect fifth), b6 (minor sixth), 7 (major seventh). Notice that this is actually the double harmonic major scale , Gipsy Major, Flamenco mode, Ionian flat 2 flat 6.

Formula Chart 1
Here is the Byzantine scale in the key of C.

One Octave Shapes

Here are some shapes to play the (Byzantine) scale in its most easy form. Each diagram has notes within the space of one octave and the tonic note on a different string.

Two-Octave Shapes

Here are two diagrams representing the Byzantine scale with notes spanning (at least) two octaves. Don’t hesitate to experiment you own positions and fingerings.

3-Notes Per String Shapes

The seven following diagrams show how to play the Byzantine scale with 3 notes per string. Each form starts on a different step of the scale. This way you’ll be able to cover the whole guitar neck.