C Persian Scale
C Persian contains 7 notes: C, D♭, E, F, G♭, A♭, B. It has 3 flats: D♭, G♭, A♭. The step pattern is H–W+H–H–H–W–W+H–H.
A dramatic, mysterious scale with dense clusters of half steps that create an intensely exotic, ancient quality. Also known as Double Harmonic Major b5, it leans heavily into chromaticism while remaining predominantly major-sounding.
The formula is 1, b2, 3, 4, b5, b6, 7. It features two augmented 2nd intervals (b2 to 3, and b6 to 7) plus a tritone between root and b5 that adds instability. The combination of b2 and natural 3 gives it a regal, mysterious quality, while the major 3rd and natural 7th provide moments of resolution amid the tension.
The dense half-step clusters require careful phrasing so as not to sound out of key. It works over augmented major 7th chords or altered dominants like 7(#9). Emphasize the b2-to-3 augmented 2nd slide on the low strings for instant Middle Eastern atmosphere, and use the b6-to-7 resolution for strong phrase endings.