In the world of musical modes the Locrian mode occupies a unique position known for its dark and unstable sound. While it’s rarely used as the primary foundation of a piece, this mode can add tension, depth and intrigue to your compositions.
Whether you’re just starting out or exploring advanced music theory, understanding the Locrian mode can open new creative possibilities on the piano. What is the Locrian mode? Let’s break it down in this article and discover how you can use it to enrich your musical repertoire.
- Fall in love with the music - Learn your favorite songs, at a level suitable for you.
- Enjoy interactive piano lessons - Explore courses covering music theory, technique chords & more.
- Get real-time feedback - Skoove's feedback tells you what went well and what needs practice.
What is the Locrian mode?
The Locrian mode is the seventh mode of the diatonic scale, beginning on the seventh degree of any major scale. Its structure is defined by its diminished fifth (♭5) and minor second (♭2) intervals, which give the mode a dissonant and unresolved sound. This instability makes the Locrian mode an unusual but fascinating choice for music.
For example, B Locrian is derived from the C major scale by starting and ending on B. The interval pattern for the Locrian mode is as follows:
H – W – W – H – W – W – W
(W = Whole Step, H = Half Step)
This sequence of intervals creates the sound that gives the mode its character; it can be thought of as the Locrian mode formula.
Here’s how the B Locrian scale looks:
B – C – D – E – F – G – A – B
Some key characteristics of the Locrian mode include:
- Diminished fifth: This interval (B to F in the B Locrian scale) is a tritone, one of the most dissonant sounds in Western music. It creates tension and prevents the mode from resolving in a stable way.
- Minor second: The step between the first and second notes (B to C in the B Locrian scale) creates an immediate sense of closeness and unease.
- Unstable root: The Locrian mode does not have a natural harmonic resolution, making it feel unresolved compared to modes like Ionian or Dorian.
Compare this for B natural minor to really get a sense of how unique this mode really is:
Although it’s rare to find pieces written entirely in the Locrian mode, it has a dramatic effect when used for short passages or as a contrast to more stable musical modes. Jazz and metal musicians sometimes use the Locrian mode to add tension or convey an eerie atmosphere.
Locrian mode scales
The Locrian mode can also be played starting on any note. It features a diminished quality due to its lowered 2nd and 5th notes, along with other flattened intervals that remain consistent across all keys.
Below is a comprehensive table showing the Locrian modes across all 12 keys:
| Mode | Notes |
|---|---|
| C | C – D♭ – E♭ – F – G♭ – A♭ – B♭ – C |
| C♯/D♭ | C♯ – D – E – F – G – A – B – C♯ |
| D | D – E♭ – F – G – A♭ – B♭ – C – D |
| D♯/E♭ | D♯ – E – F♯ – G – A – B – C – D♯ |
| E | E – F – G – A – B♭ – C – D – E |
| F | F – G♭ – A♭ – B♭ – C – D♭ – E♭ – F |
| F♯/G♭ | F♯ – G – A – B – C – D – E – F♯ |
| G | G – A♭ – B♭ – C – D♭ – E♭ – F – G |
| G♯/A♭ | G♯ – A – B – C – D – E – F – G♯ |
| A | A – B♭ – C – D – E♭ – F – G – A |
| A♯/B♭ | A♯ – B – C – D♯ – E – F♯ – G♯ – A♯ |
| B | B – C – D – E – F – G – A – B |
Understanding the Locrian scale across different keys helps you apply it to various musical contexts, whether you’re improvising a solo or crafting an interesting melody.
The Locrian mode and scale degrees
Diatonic modes of the major scale, such as Locrian, can be formed by playing a major scale from a specific degree. The Locrian mode is formed by playing from the seventh degree. Let’s break this down:
- Start with a major scale: For example, in C major (C Ionian), the notes are: C, D, E, F, G, A, B, C.
- Begin on the seventh note: Start on B instead of C.
- Play the same sequence of notes as the major scale starting on the seventh degree: B, C, D, E, F, G, A, B.
Now you have constructed the B Locrian mode from the seventh degree of a major scale. Well done!
This process works for any key, try forming some more examples of the Locrian scale and check them against the table we just looked at.
How to play the Locrian mode on piano?
As with any of the piano scales you may have practiced, mastering the Locrian mode on the piano opens up a world of expressive possibilities. Its distinctive minor feel with a flattened fifth makes it perfect for crafting dark, tense melodies and experimental improvisations.
In this section, we’ll break down the steps to play the Locrian mode, starting with basic fingerings and progressing to advanced techniques that will enhance your practice routine.
Start with B Locrian:
- Place your right-hand thumb (finger 1) on B.
- Use this finger pattern: 1 (B), 2 (C), 3 (D), thumb under to 1 (E), 2 (F), 3 (G), 4 (A), and 5 (B).
- Reverse the motion to descend back to the starting note.
Practice with the left hand:
- Start with your pinky (finger 5) on low B.
- Use this pattern: 5 (B), 4 (C), 3 (D), 2 (E), thumb (1) on F, cross over with 3 (G), 2 (A), and 1 (B).
- Ascend and descend until it feels natural.
Move to other keys:
- Try C Locrian (C-D♭-E♭-F-G♭-A♭-B♭-C) or G Locrian (G-A♭-B♭-C-D♭-E♭-F-G).
- Adjust fingerings as needed for sharps or flats.
Practice with variations:
- Rhythm: Add syncopation or triplets to make your practice more engaging.
- Dynamics: Play softly (piano) or loudly (forte) to explore expressive contrasts.
- Improvisation: Use the Mixolydian mode to create melodies or riffs.
Learning the Locrian mode can feel overwhelming, especially when exploring all its scales and keys. That’s where Skoove comes in. With interactive piano lessons and real-time feedback, whether you’re mastering scales or learning how to play piano for beginners, Skoove provides a helping hand on your piano journey.
Top 3 songs to play with Locrian mode
Here are three great songs you can learn with Skoove to dive into the unique character of Locrian music while improving your piano skills!
Cheek to Cheek – Irving Berlin
This lively, swing-era tune can take on a unique twist with a Locrian inflection, where its minor quality becomes more dissonant and edgy, adding a touch of tension and intrigue to the smooth melody.
Fly Me to the Moon – Frank Sinatra
When infused with the Locrian mode, this romantic classic takes on a darker, more mysterious feel. The typically bright and uplifting melody transforms with a sense of instability, adding complexity to the song’s familiar charm.
All the Things You Are – Frank Sinatra
The elegant, sophisticated harmonies of this jazz standard can be heightened with a Locrian approach, lending a sense of unresolved tension and drama to the otherwise smooth and flowing progressions.
Conclusion
The Locrian mode, with its dissonant and mysterious character, offers a unique tool for creating tension and intrigue in music. Though rarely used as a main theme, its dark allure makes it perfect for evoking unease and mystery. Explore its potential with practice and tools like Skoove and let this unconventional mode inspire your creativity.
Author of this blog post:
Susana Pérez Posada
With over seven years of piano education and a deep passion for music therapy, Susana brings a unique blend of expertise to Skoove. A graduate in Music Therapy from SRH Hochschule Heidelberg and an experienced classical pianist from Universidad EAFIT, she infuses her teaching with a holistic approach that transcends traditional piano lessons. Susana’s writings for Skoove combine her rich musical knowledge with engaging storytelling, enriching the learning experience for pianists of all levels. Away from the piano, she loves exploring new places and immersing herself in a good book, believing these diverse experiences enhance her creative teaching style.
Published by Lydia Ogn from the Skoove team
