What Is the Locrian Mode?
The Locrian mode is one of the seven traditional musical modes. The Locrian mode is one of the seven musical modes derived from the major scale. It’s considered the 7th mode and is known for its very tense and unstable sound.
To understand the Locrian mode, start on the note B and play only the white keys on the piano up to the next B:
B – C – D – E – F – G- A- B
All Locrian scales will have the same intervals between consecutive notes as the notes above.
Where Do You Typically Hear the Locrian Mode?
Locrian mode is quite rare and not often used as the foundation for entire songs because of its unstable and dissonant sound. However, it does appear in certain types of music where that tense, uneasy quality is desirable.
In jazz and fusion, for example, musicians frequently use the Locrian mode to add complexity and tension to their solos and harmonies. Experimental and avant-garde music also employs Locrian mode to create eerie, unsettling atmospheres, as the mode’s dark and dissonant character fits well with unconventional sounds.
In metal and progressive rock, the Locrian mode can give riffs and melodies a menacing or aggressive edge, complementing the genres’ intense moods.
Additionally, film scores sometimes use Locrian mode to evoke feelings of suspense, fear, or instability, enhancing dramatic tension in scenes.
How to Build the Locrian Scale
You can form the Locrian mode by using the following interval pattern relative to the root: H-W-W-H-W-W-W.
In short, the 1st and 2nd degree, and the 5th and 6th degree of the Locrian Scale are half a step (H) apart, while the other consecutive notes are a whole step (W) apart.
What’s Next?
Now that you have learn about the Locrian mode, try practicing Locrian scales, or experiment with writing music in Locrian mode.
Listen to Music in all 7 modes:
Listen to Hot Cross Bun in all 7 different modes. Feel the mood when Hot Cross Bun is played in B Locrian.