E Maqam Hijaz Scale
E Maqam Hijaz contains 7 notes: E, F, G♯, A, B, C, D. It has 1 sharp: G♯. The step pattern is H–W+H–H–W–H–W–W.
The Arabic name for Phrygian dominant and one of the most important modal frameworks in Arabic music. The augmented 2nd between b2 and 3 is the defining sound of the Hijaz tetrachord, heard throughout Middle Eastern, Turkish, and Greek traditions.
The formula is 1, b2, 3, 4, 5, b6, b7. Unlike Western modes that are fixed patterns, maqam is a living system with specific melodic phrases (seyir), ornaments, and microtonal inflections. The Western equal-tempered version captures the basic shape but not the subtle quarter-tone nuances of traditional performance.
Identical notes to Phrygian dominant (5th mode of harmonic minor), but the maqam approach emphasizes specific melodic contours rather than running the scale up and down. Practice approaching the b2 and b6 with slight bends to simulate microtonal inflections. The Hijaz tetrachord (b2-3-4) is the core melodic cell to internalize.