B chord with B Ionian scale

Pairing the B chord (Major) with the B Ionian scale: formulas, fretboard voicings and the practical context for soloing, improvisation and songwriting.

B chord formula

Interval formula: 1 3 5. A major triad — root, 3rd and 5th. The foundation of all harmony: a stable, clear, bright chord.

B Ionian scale formula

Formula: 1 2 3 4 5 6 7. Classification: functional-tonal.

Fretboard voicings for B

Curated B shapes that sit naturally inside the B Ionian scale.

XX151312345
B — A shape, frets 1–5
513311345678
B — G shape, frets 3–8
151351678910
B — E shape, frets 6–10
XX15318910111213
B — D shape, frets 8–13
X53131101112131415
B — C shape, frets 10–15

Other scales for B

Compare how the same chord behaves over other compatible modes.

Related pages