fuaranScale Mastery
SCALE · ON FRENCH HORN

B Locrian

Diminished tonic. Rare in practice; theoretical more than functional.

MEIMIDIHumdrum
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Tempo120 bpm

Playback sounds a perfect 5th below the written notation — the instrument's concert (sounding) pitch.

Audio source: FluidR3_GM SoundFont (public domain)

Engraved by Verovio 6.2.0-43f8060 5 title B Locrian Verovio
Keyboard
BCDEFGAB
Related scales
Diatonic chord harmonisation
Same scale, other instruments
Same scale, other tonics
Modes built on this tonic
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Theory reference
Questions
What notes are in the B Locrian scale?

The B Locrian scale uses the notes B, C, D, E, F, G, A (one octave; the pattern repeats at higher registers).

What's the Locrian scale formula?

The Locrian scale follows the interval pattern H W W H W W W, where W = whole step (2 semitones) and H = half step (1 semitone). Apply that pattern starting on B to get the B Locrian scale.

What chords work over B Locrian?

Locrian works over m7♭5 (half-diminished) chords — the ii of a minor ii–V–i. Locrian ♮6 is often a better fit.

How do I finger B Locrian on French Horn?

On brass, scales train embouchure + valve / slide coordination across the partials. Slow practice with a tuner reveals intonation tendencies (e.g., the 5th partial sharp on trumpet).

When would I use the Locrian scale?

Diminished tonic. Rare in practice; theoretical more than functional.