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E Mixolydian Scale

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

E Mixolydian Scale Notes

The E Mixolydian scale contains the following notes:

E – F♯ – G♯ – A – B – C♯ – D

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

E Mixolydian Piano Diagram

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

E Mixolydian Scale Formula and Intervals

The interval formula for the Mixolydian scale is:

W – W – H – W – W – H – W

Applied to E, this gives us:

Thus, E 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 E Mixolydian

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

Related Scales and Modes

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

E Mixolydian Scale FAQs

How is E Mixolydian different from E major?

E Mixolydian has a minor 7th (D), while E major has a major 7th (D♯).

How is E Mixolydian different from E Dorian?

E Mixolydian has a major 3rd (G♯), while E Dorian has a minor 3rd (G).

What is the parent scale of E Mixolydian?

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

Summary: E Mixolydian Scale