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B Mixolydian Scale

The B Mixolydian scale is the 5th mode of the E 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 B Mixolydian scale: notes, intervals, theory, and how to play it on the piano.

B Mixolydian Scale Notes

The B Mixolydian scale contains the following notes:

B – C♯ – D♯ – E – F♯ – G♯ – A

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

B Mixolydian Piano Diagram

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

B Mixolydian Scale Formula and Intervals

The interval formula for the Mixolydian scale is:

W – W – H – W – W – H – W

Applied to B, this gives us:

Thus, B 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 B Mixolydian

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

Related Scales and Modes

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

B Mixolydian Scale FAQs

How is B Mixolydian different from B major?

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

How is B Mixolydian different from B Dorian?

B Mixolydian has a major 3rd (D♯), while B Dorian has a minor 3rd (D).

What is the parent scale of B Mixolydian?

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

Summary: B Mixolydian Scale