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Dominant Diminished Scale
The dominant diminished scale, also known as the dom-dim scale, is a variation of the diminished scale, starting from the second degree of the original diminished scale. This adjustment alters the starting point and creates a different sequence of intervals. In practice, the dominant diminished scale is constructed by alternating half steps and whole steps in the following order:
Examples of Dominant Diminished Scales
| Key | Scale Notes |
|---|---|
| C | C, C#, D#, E, F#, G, A, A# |
| D | D, D#, F, F#, G#, A, B, C |
| E | E, F, G, G#, A#, B, C#, D |
| F | F, F#, G#, A, B, C, D, D# |
| G | G, G#, A#, B, C#, D, E, F |
| A | A, A#, C, C#, D#, E, F#, G |
| B | B, C, D, D#, F, F#, G#, A |
How to Use the Dominant Diminished Scale
The dominant diminished scale is a powerful tool in improvisation and musical composition, especially in genres such as jazz, blues, and modern classical music. Below are some tips on how to use this scale effectively:
Improvisation Over Dominant Chords
The dominant diminished scale is often used to improvise over dominant chords (V7) due to its interval structure that includes the augmented dominant chord with the flat ninth and flat thirteenth. For example, over a G7 chord (G, B, D, F), you can use the G dominant diminished scale (G, G#, A#, B, C#, D, E, F).
Creating Tension and Resolution
The dominant diminished scale is excellent for creating tension that naturally resolves to tonic chords. The dissonance generated by the diminished intervals creates a sense of expectation that resolves satisfyingly when returning to the tonic. For example, when playing a C7 (dominant) resolving to an F major (tonic), the C dominant diminished scale can be used to heighten the tension before the resolution.
Tritone Substitutions
In jazz, tritone substitution is a common technique where a dominant chord is replaced by another dominant chord a tritone (three whole steps) away. The dominant diminished scale can be applied to both chords to enrich the progression. For example, a G7 can be substituted with a Db7, and the G dominant diminished scale can be applied to both chords.
Advanced Harmony
Composers can use the dominant diminished scale to explore advanced harmony and complex chord progressions. The inclusion of notes such as the flat ninth and flat thirteenth allows for the creation of interesting inner voices and harmonic movements that can enrich the texture of the music.
Conclusion
The dominant diminished scale is a versatile tool rich in possibilities for musicians and composers. Its unique interval structure allows for the creation of tension, resolution, and harmonic complexity, making it especially useful in jazz and modern classical contexts. Practicing and exploring these scales can open new doors for musical creativity, providing greater depth and sophistication in performances and compositions.
By understanding and applying the dominant diminished scale, musicians can expand their harmonic and melodic vocabulary, creating more expressive and interesting pieces. Whether in improvisation or composition, the dominant diminished scale offers a wide range of possibilities to enrich music and engage listeners.