Locrian #2: The Half-Diminished Scale
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Learn how to use the Locrian #2 (half-diminished scale) sound for m7b5 (half-diminished) chords —quickly!
In this Quick Tip, John Proulx breaks down the scale and explains the easy shortcut to find it: go up a minor 3rd and play melodic minor (e.g., Dø7 → F melodic minor) to unlock smooth lines, avoid harsh b9 clashes, and flow into V7alt → minor i.
You’ll also get plug-and-play locrian #2 licks and a backing track for the minor 2–5–1 (iiø–V7alt–i). Perfect for jazz standards and minor blues.
Check it out and keep upgrading your jazz piano improvisation with Piano With Jonny.
Writer
Daine Jordan
Daine is a diverse and award-winning pianist, composer, and producer. Trained from a young age on classical piano, Daine has since ventured into nearly all avenues of music. He began to play professionally starting at age 16. Daine has composed for and performed with nearly every type of ensemble, from...
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