The Double Harmonic Major scale, also known as the Byzantine scale or Arabic scale, is an exotic-sounding scale that has a distinctive, Eastern flavor. It’s derived from the major scale but with two notable alterations that give it its unique character.

Construction:

The Double Harmonic Major scale is built with the following interval pattern:

• Whole step (Tone)

• Half step (semitone)

• Augmented second (1.5 semitones)

• Half step (semitone)

• Whole step (Tone)

• Half step (semitone)

• Augmented second (1.5 semitones)

In C Major, it would be:

• C (root)

• D (whole step)

• E♭ (half step)

• F♯ (augmented second)

• G (half step)

• A (whole step)

• B (half step)

• C (octave)

Features:

• Two augmented seconds: These are the large leaps in the scale (e.g., between E♭ and F♯, and B and C).

• Exotic sound: The combination of the augmented seconds and the other intervals gives the Double Harmonic Major scale its distinct, exotic sound often associated with Middle Eastern, Eastern European, and South Asian music.

Chord Construction:

• Tonic chord (I): C major (C, E♭, G)

• Subdominant chord (IV): F♯ major (F♯, A, C)

• Dominant chord (V): G major (G, B, D)

The scale is often used in compositions that aim to evoke an Eastern or exotic atmosphere, and it can add a dramatic, tension-filled mood to music.