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A Mixolydian Scale

The A Mixolydian scale is the 5th mode of the D major scale and has a distinctive major sound characterized by its minor 7th. This combination of a major 3rd with a flat 7th creates a bright yet bluesy quality often heard in rock, blues, country, and modal jazz.

This page covers everything you need to know about the A Mixolydian scale: notes, intervals, theory, and how to play it on the piano.

A Mixolydian Scale Notes

The A Mixolydian scale contains the following notes:

A – B – C♯ – D – E – F♯ – G

These notes come directly from the D major parent scale, starting on its 5th degree (A).

A Mixolydian Piano Diagram

This diagram highlights which keys belong to the A Mixolydian scale, which is helpful for visualizing whole steps, half steps, and the overall shape of the scale on the keyboard.

A Mixolydian Scale Formula and Intervals

The interval formula for the Mixolydian scale is:

W – W – H – W – W – H – W

Applied to A, this gives us:

Thus, A Mixolydian is built with the following scale degrees:

This structure gives the Mixolydian mode its characteristic sound, due in large part to the unique juxtaposition of the major 3rd with the minor 7th.

Chords in the Key of A Mixolydian

When stacking thirds on each scale degree of the A Mixolydian scale, the following diatonic triads emerge:

Related Scales and Modes

If you enjoy playing in A Mixolydian, you may also like:

A Mixolydian Scale FAQs

How is A Mixolydian different from A major?

A Mixolydian has a minor 7th (G), while A major has a major 7th (G♯).

How is A Mixolydian different from A Dorian?

A Mixolydian has a major 3rd (C♯), while A Dorian has a minor 3rd (C).

What is the parent scale of A Mixolydian?

D major. A Mixolydian uses the same notes as D major, but starts on its 5th degree (A).

Summary: A Mixolydian Scale