Phrygian scale for guitar

The Phrygian scale, or mode, is the third of the seven musical modes. It is similar to the natural minor except for the lowered second. The Phrygian scale is the minor scale that appears when a major scale is started from the third note (third scale-degree). Thus, a C major scale played from "E" is an E Phrygian scale. This is why the term "mode" is more appropriate than "scale".

The E Phrygian mode is the same as a C major. So what's the difference? There is no difference; it's the chords that create the magic. Playing an E Phrygian scale over a C major chord will sound exactly like playing a C major scale (because they are identical). However, playing an E Phrygian scale over an E minor chord will sound "Phrygian".

Intervals: 0.5 - 1 - 1 - 1 - 0.5 - 1 - 1

Chord fit: Minor triads, m7

Phrygian, 1. position

Phrygian, 1. position

Phrygian, 2. position

Phrygian, 2. position

Phrygian, 3. position

Phrygian, 3. position

Phrygian, 4. position

Phrygian, 4. position

Phrygian, 5. position

Phrygian, 5. position

3 notes per string pattern

Phrygian, 3 notes per string pattern