Phrygian Mode

Minor with a Flamenco b2

The Phrygian mode follows the pattern H-W-W-W-H-W-W.

Starting from E: E-F-G-A-B-C-D.

Phrygian is like a natural minor scale with a lowered 2nd degree. Compared to E natural minor (E-F#-G-A-B-C-D), the only difference is F natural instead of F#.

That half-step between the root and the b2 is the Phrygian signature — it is the sound of flamenco, Spanish guitar, and modal metal. The characteristic movement is 1 → b2 and back, resolving down to the root.

E Phrygian Scale

Study the E Phrygian scale ascending. Notice the immediate half-step from E to F.

Play E Phrygian

• Play the E Phrygian scale ascending and descending
• Lean into the b2 — let F sit before pushing past to G
• Compare to E natural minor: one note different, very different feeling