Algerian scale

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File:Algerian scale.png
(Middlebrook 1984)[1] Template:ErrorTemplate:Category handler

The Algerian Scale is a scale frequently used in Algerian music. The frequent use of 1.5 steps (a minor 3rd) in the scale contributes to a sound commonly associated with Moorish music.

File:Algerian scaleB.png
(Fischer 1996)[2]

It is also defined as an eleven note scale with two augmented seconds. Jacques Ibert first used this definition in Escales (1924).[3]

In India's Carnatic music, this corresponds to Simhendramadhyamam.

Scale formula

In step notation:

  • W, H, WH, H, H, WH, H
  • W = Whole step
  • H = Half step
  • WH = Whole-and-a-half step

or in decimals:

  • 1 step + 0.5 step + 1.5 step + 0.5 step + 0.5 step + 1.5 step + 0.5 step.

This formula gives the first octave only. In the second octave, the third step is 1 rather than 1.5, followed by a step of 1 rather than 0.5. This may be seen in images to the right. In the one on the bottom (with the three-octave spanning scale, Fischer 1996), the lower octave shows an FTemplate:Sharp while the upper octave shows an F natural.

This can also be notated as degrees in relation to the root note:

  • First octave: 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8
  • Second octave: 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8

It can also be thought of as Harmonic Minor with a raised 4 in the first octave.

Sources

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  1. Middlebrook, Ron (1984). Scales and Modes in the Beginning, p.125. Template:ISBN.
  2. Fischer, Peter (1996). Rock Guitar Secrets, p.160. Mel Bay Publications. Template:ISBN, Template:ISBN.
  3. Robert Fink, Robert Ricci (1975). The Language of Twentieth Century Music: A Dictionary of Terms, p.3. Schirmer Books. Template:ISBN, Template:ISBN.

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External links

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