How to Play Messiaen's Truncated Mode 5 Scale on the Guitar

If you would like to try dabbling in modern harmony, Messiaen's truncated mode 5 scale is a great place to start. This very unusual scale is comprised of a half step, perfect fourth, half step and a final perfect fourth. This is like no other scale you are accustomed to. Try this scale next time you solo or compose to expand your creative potential while exploring modern harmony.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Guitar

1. Begin by placing your forefinger on the fifth fret of the sixth string (low E string). This is the root note of the scale.

2. Place your middle finger on the sixth fret of the sixth string. This is the note B flat, the second degree of Messian's truncated mode 5 scale.

3. Place your forefinger on the sixth fret of the fifth string (A string). This is the note D sharp, the third degree of Messian's truncated mode 5 scale.

4. Place your middle finger on the seventh fret of the fifth string. This is the note E, the fourth degree of Messian's truncated mode 5 scale.

5. Use your ring finger to play the seventh fret of the fourth string (D string). This is the final note of the scale.

6. Play the scale in reverse. Play Steps 5 through 1 in reverse order to complete the scale. That's it, you now know how to play Messiaen's truncated mode 5 scale on the guitar.

Tips & Warnings

• Don't be worried if this scale sounds odd to you at first. It takes some time to get your ear used to a scale that is so different from the Western scales we are used to.