E♭ major scale
The E♭ major scale, with its three flats (E♭, A♭, B♭), is a key signature beloved by brass players and symphonic composers. Known for its rich, heroic quality, this scale has been used extensively in both classical and military band music.
The scale follows the major scale pattern: E♭ to F (whole), F to G (whole), G to A♭ (half), A♭ to B♭ (whole), B♭ to C (whole), C to D (whole), and D to E♭ (half). The three flats create a warm, robust sonority.
E♭ major is particularly effective for brass instruments, making it a staple in wind band literature and orchestral writing. Many famous symphonic works have been written in this key, taking advantage of its natural resonance with brass instruments and its capacity for both majestic and tender expression.
E♭ major scale details
Information and technical details of the scale.
- Category
- western
- Type
- Heptatonic (7 notes per octave)
- Intervals
- 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 1
- Formula
- 2-2-1-2-2-2-1
- Also known as
- E♭ Ionian scale, E♭ Ionian mode, E-flat major scale
- Enharmonic equivalents
Related scales
Here are some scales that are related to the E♭ major scale. Or browse all piano scales.
E♭ harmonic minor scale
2-1-2-2-1-3-1
E♭ melodic minor scale
2-1-2-2-2-2-1
E♭ natural minor scale
2-1-2-2-1-2-2