What is the A Double Harmonic Major Scale?
The double harmonic major scale (also called the Byzantine scale) features two augmented 2nd intervals, giving it an intensely exotic, ornamental sound. Its roots span Middle Eastern maqam traditions, Indian raga, and Byzantine liturgical chant — a truly global scale that sounds dramatic the moment you play it. Here's how the A Double Harmonic Major Scale lays out on the fretboard.
Notes and Positions
Two augmented seconds; exotic and dramatic. On guitar, the same scale tones repeat in multiple positions, so the real goal is learning how to connect shapes up and down the neck. Use the CAGED boxes as smaller practice areas before linking the full fretboard. In the key of A, the notes are: A, Bb, C#, D, E, F, G#.
How to Use It
You'll often hear it in Middle Eastern, Romani, and Metal. A good way to internalize the sound is to sing the root, then sing a few scale degrees before you play them.
Loop a simple backing track in the same key and target the root on strong beats. Use the interactive fretboard above to spot repeats of the same note on different strings and frets.