Explore scales · Ukulele
B gypsy minor scale on ukulele
B gypsy minor runs B, C♯, D, F, F♯, G, A♯. Box 1 places the root on string 4, fret 4 for a mid-neck start.
How it is built
Formula 1, 2, ♭3, ♭5, 5, ♭6, 7
How do you play the B gypsy minor scale on ukulele?
B gypsy minor in box 1 runs from fret 1 to fret 4, 10 notes across 4 strings, from C♯ on the C string at fret 1 up to C♯ on the A string at fret 4. The root falls on the G string at fret 4 and the A string at fret 2.
Every note in this box, string by string
| String | Frets | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 4 (G) | 3, 4 | A♯, B |
| 3 (C) | 1, 2 | C♯, D |
| 2 (E) | 1, 2, 3 | F, F♯, G |
| 1 (A) | 1, 2, 4 | A♯, B, C♯ |
Box 2 · frets 5–8
B gypsy minor in box 2 runs from fret 5 to fret 8, 9 notes across 4 strings, from F on the C string at fret 5 up to F on the A string at fret 8. The root falls on the E string at fret 7.
Every note in this box, string by string
| String | Frets | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 4 (G) | 6, 7 | C♯, D |
| 3 (C) | 5, 6, 7 | F, F♯, G |
| 2 (E) | 6, 7 | A♯, B |
| 1 (A) | 5, 8 | D, F |
Box 3 · frets 7–10
B gypsy minor in box 3 runs from fret 7 to fret 10, 10 notes across 4 strings, from G on the C string at fret 7 up to G on the A string at fret 10. The root falls on the E string at fret 7.
Every note in this box, string by string
| String | Frets | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 4 (G) | 7, 10 | D, F |
| 3 (C) | 7, 10 | G, A♯ |
| 2 (E) | 7, 9, 10 | B, C♯, D |
| 1 (A) | 8, 9, 10 | F, F♯, G |
Why it sounds like that
Form it from B harmonic minor by lowering the fourth degree E to F, creating a 1½-step gap between D and F. The scale degrees are 1, 2, ♭3, ♭5, 5, ♭6, 7. This alteration yields the signature augmented-second leap. Compare with B harmonic minor to hear the difference.
When to use it
B gypsy minor works over B minor or B 5th chords for an exotic, tense sound. Use it over a B minor vamp to highlight the augmented second. It fits progressive metal, fusion, and Middle Eastern–flavoured lines. The major seventh A♯ resolves strongly to B.
Which position to practise
Learn Box 1 first. It places the root on string 4, fret 4 and covers frets 1–4, which is good for building finger strength in the low register.
Common questions
What notes are in B gypsy minor?
The notes are B, C♯, D, F, F♯, G, and A♯. The scale has a minor third, flat fifth, and major seventh. These intervals create its distinctive sound.
Which chords fit B gypsy minor?
B gypsy minor fits B minor and B 5th chords. The scale contains a minor third and perfect fifth, so it works over a minor tonic. The flat fifth adds tension.
How is B gypsy minor different from B harmonic minor?
B gypsy minor lowers the fourth degree from E to F compared to B harmonic minor. This creates an augmented second between D and F. The rest of the notes are identical.