B Hungarian gypsy

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B Hungarian gypsy Scale

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Step pattern W – H – W+H – H – H – W – W

B Hungarian gypsy contains 7 notes: B, C♯, D, E♯, F♯, G, A. It has 3 sharps: C♯, E♯, F♯. The step pattern is W–H–W+H–H–H–W–W.

One of the most emotionally intense scales in music. Also called "double harmonic minor," its two augmented 2nd intervals (b3 to #4 and b6 to 7) produce the passionate, fiery sound of Hungarian and Roma music. A favorite in metal for dramatic, virtuosic passages.

Theory

The formula is 1, 2, b3, #4, 5, b6, 7. Like the double harmonic major, it contains two augmented 2nd intervals. The #4 in a minor context creates the characteristic "gypsy" tension, while the natural 7th provides strong resolution to the root. Liszt, Brahms, and many Hungarian composers used it extensively.

On the guitar

The two augmented 2nd stretches sit well in 3-notes-per-string shapes. Emphasize the b3-to-#4 leap for instant character, and use the b6-to-7 resolution for strong phrase endings. It works over minor chords with dramatic, sweeping runs that combine technical display with raw emotion.

Piano