How to Play the A Major Byzantine Scale on the Guitar

If you’re looking to add an exotic twist to your guitar playing, the A Major Byzantine scale might just be the spice you need. It’s a scale that brings a Middle Eastern flavor to your music, and it can be a game-changer for your riffs and solos. In this article, we’ll break down the A Major Byzantine scale, show you how to play it on the guitar, and give you tips on using it to enhance your metal playing. So grab your guitar, and let’s get started!

What Exactly Is the A Major Byzantine Scale?

The A Major Byzantine scale, also known as the Double Harmonic Major scale, is a fascinating blend of sounds that can bring an exotic feel to your music. It contains some unique intervals that aren’t found in the more common Western scales, giving it a distinctly different flavor. The scale includes the following notes: A, B, C#, D, E, F, G#, and A. It’s characterized by its augmented second intervals, which are rare in other scales.

Imagine the usual major scale, but with a twist of the unexpected. It’s like adding a chili pepper to your soup—it gives it a kick that you didn’t see coming. This scale is particularly popular in metal genres like black metal and progressive metal, where unusual and dramatic sounds are highly prized.

Playing this scale can be an exciting way to explore new musical ideas. It can also serve as a perfect gateway into more complex musical concepts, such as modal interchange and exotic scales.

Getting the Basics Down

To start playing the A Major Byzantine scale, you’ll need to get comfortable with its unique finger positions on the fretboard. Like any new scale, the best way to understand it is to play it slowly and clearly, focusing on each note’s sound and position. Here’s a simple way to get started:

• Start with your index finger on the 5th fret of the low E string (A note).
• Play the 6th fret with your middle finger (B note).
• Use your ring finger on the 8th fret (C# note).
• Move to the 5th string and play the 5th fret (D note).
• Use your middle finger on the 7th fret (E note).
• Play the 8th fret with your ring finger (F note).
• Switch to the 4th string and play the 6th fret (G# note).

Keep practicing this pattern until you can play it smoothly and confidently. Pay attention to your finger placement, and make sure your notes are clean and even. This will set the foundation for more advanced techniques.

Adding Some Flavor with Vibrato and Bends

Once you’re comfortable with the basic scale, it’s time to add some expression. Vibrato and bends are excellent ways to bring life to your playing and give it a more human feel. When you use vibrato, you’re essentially shaking the note a bit to give it a more vocal-like quality. Bends, on the other hand, allow you to reach notes that aren’t part of the standard scale by bending a string until it reaches the desired pitch.

Here’s how you can incorporate these techniques into the A Major Byzantine scale:

• Vibrato: Start with the A note on the 5th fret of the 6th string. After you play the note, gently shake your wrist to create a vibrato effect. It might feel awkward at first, but with practice, it will become second nature.
• Bends: Focus on the G# note on the 4th string. Play the note and then bend the string until it reaches the pitch of an A. This can add tension and release to your playing, making it more engaging.

By adding these techniques, you bring a personal touch to your music, making it more expressive and dynamic.

Using the Scale in Metal Music

The A Major Byzantine scale is a favorite among metal guitarists for its exotic sound, which can add a unique edge to your riffs and solos. In metal, where aggression and intensity are key, this scale can be a powerful tool.

Here are some tips on incorporating the scale into your metal playing:

• Riffs: Use the scale to create riffs with an exotic twist. Try alternating between the scale’s notes and power chords to create a heavy, driving rhythm.
• Solos: In solos, the scale can bring a dramatic and mysterious feel. Experiment with different speeds and rhythms to add variety and interest.

Remember, metal is all about pushing boundaries, so don’t be afraid to experiment and find your unique sound.

Practicing with Purpose

Practice is vital when learning any new scale, but it’s how you practice that makes all the difference. Focused, intentional practice can help you internalize the scale and make it a natural part of your playing.

Here are some practice tips:

• Consistency: Practice the scale daily, even if only for a few minutes. Consistency is key to building muscle memory.
• Slow It Down: Play the scale slowly and accurately before speeding up. This ensures you’re hitting each note cleanly.
• Use a Metronome: Practicing with a metronome can help you maintain a steady tempo and improve your timing.

We have a custom metronome designed specifically for guitar practice, and it can be a helpful tool as you work on integrating the A Major Byzantine scale into your playing.

Experimenting with Chord Progressions

One of the most exciting aspects of learning a new scale is experimenting with different chord progressions. The A Major Byzantine scale offers some unique possibilities, and it can be a lot of fun to explore them.

Try creating chord progressions that incorporate the scale’s notes. Here’s an example to get you started:

• A (root)
• F (minor 6th)
• D (4th)
• E (5th)

This progression provides a dark and exotic feel that can serve as the foundation for a new song or riff.

Creative Uses in Songwriting

When it comes to songwriting, the A Major Byzantine scale can be a powerful tool for creating unique and memorable compositions. Its exotic sound can set your music apart and add a distinctive flair.

Here are some ideas to inspire your songwriting:

• Intro Riff: Start your song with a riff based on the scale to grab attention right away.
• Bridge Section: Use the scale in your song’s bridge to add a surprising twist and keep listeners engaged.

There’s no right or wrong way to use the scale, so let your creativity guide you.

Learning from the Masters

One of the best ways to improve your playing is to learn from those who have mastered the style. There are many famous metal guitarists who use the A Major Byzantine scale to great effect. Listening to their music can provide inspiration and insight into how to use the scale effectively.

At Riffhard, we offer lessons from some of the world’s top metal guitarists. Their expertise can help you understand the nuances of the scale and how to apply it in your playing.

Final Thoughts

The A Major Byzantine scale is an exciting and exotic scale that can add a new dimension to your guitar playing. Whether you’re using it for riffs, solos, or songwriting, it offers a unique sound that’s sure to stand out. If you’re looking to explore this scale further, our lessons feature some of the best metal guitarists in the world, offering insights and guidance. Check out Riffhard for more. Happy playing!