D Double harmonic Scale
D Double harmonic contains 7 notes: D, E♭, F♯, G, A, B♭, C♯. It has 2 sharps: F♯, C♯. The step pattern is H–W+H–H–W–H–W+H–H.
Also known as the Byzantine scale, this is one of the most intensely exotic-sounding scales in Western music. Two wide augmented-2nd gaps give it a sound that's simultaneously ancient and cinematic — think Dick Dale's "Misirlou." It appears independently in Byzantine chant, Arabic maqam, Indian raga, and flamenco.
The formula is 1, b2, 3, 4, 5, b6, 7. Two augmented 2nd intervals (b2 to 3 and b6 to 7) create a symmetrical structure — the upper tetrachord mirrors the lower. This built-in symmetry gives the scale a strong harmonic pull toward the tonic. In Arabic tradition it corresponds to Maqam Hijaz Kar, and in North Indian classical music to Raga Bhairav.
The two augmented 2nd stretches sit naturally on the fretboard with 3-notes-per-string shapes. Use the b2-to-3 slide on the low strings for instant drama, and emphasize the b6-to-7 resolution when ascending. It works beautifully over major chords when you want an exotic touch — try it over a static E major with the open low E as a drone.
- Misirlou - Dick Dale
- Raga Bhairav - Hindustani classical