The E-flat bebop dominant scale is an eight-note chromatic scale derived from the E-flat Mixolydian mode, with an added chromatic passing tone between the flat seventh (D♭) and the root (E♭). This scale consists of the notes E♭, F, G, A♭, B♭, C, D♭, and D, and follows the interval pattern: whole, whole, half, whole, whole, half, half, half. The inclusion of the major seventh (D) as a passing tone allows for smoother voice leading and ensures that chord tones such as the root, third, fifth, and seventh fall on the downbeats during eighth-note phrasing. This scale is commonly used in jazz and bebop improvisation, particularly over dominant seventh chords and ii-V progressions, providing a rich harmonic palette and facilitating the creation of dynamic melodic lines.
Name: E-flat bebop dominant scale
Notes: E♭, F, G, A♭, B♭, C, D♭, D, E♭
Intervals: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, ♭7, 7, 1
Formula: 2-2-1-2-1-1-2-1
Type: Octatonic (8 notes per octave)
E-flat bebop dominant scale on the Staff
E-flat bebop dominant scale on Piano
E-flat bebop dominant scale on Guitar
E-flat bebop dominant scale on Ukulele
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Rowan Ellis is a musician and educator with a passion for exploring the language of harmony and melody. With years of experience across classical, jazz, and contemporary styles, Rowan breaks down music theory into clear, practical insights. His goal is to make chords and scales less intimidating and more inspiring for every musician.