Introduction to Minor Scales
Minor scales are essential in music for creating a darker, more melancholic sound compared to major scales. They are constructed using specific patterns of whole (W) and half (H) steps. The natural minor scale is the foundation, from which harmonic and melodic minor scales are derived, each adding unique characteristics while maintaining the minor tonality.
- Minor scales provide a melancholic sound.
- They are built using whole and half step patterns.
- The natural minor scale is the foundational scale.
Natural Minor Scale
The natural minor scale is built using a specific interval pattern: W-H-W-W-H-W-W. This scale provides the basic minor sound and is often used in various musical genres. To construct a natural minor scale, start from the root note and follow the whole and half step pattern.
- Interval pattern: W-H-W-W-H-W-W.
- Provides the basic minor sound.
- Used across various musical genres.
Harmonic Minor Scale
The harmonic minor scale modifies the natural minor scale by raising the seventh degree, which creates a leading tone that resolves to the tonic. This alteration gives the scale a distinctive sound, often associated with classical and Middle Eastern music. The interval pattern is W-H-W-W-H-WH-H.
- Raises the seventh degree of the natural minor scale.
- Interval pattern: W-H-W-W-H-WH-H.
- Creates a leading tone for stronger resolution.
Melodic Minor Scale
The melodic minor scale ascends like the harmonic minor, but it also raises the sixth degree, creating a smoother sound. When descending, it follows the natural minor pattern. This scale is versatile and is used in jazz to create more fluid melodic lines. The ascending interval pattern is W-H-W-W-W-W-H.
- Raises both sixth and seventh degrees when ascending.
- Descends like the natural minor scale.
- Ascending interval pattern: W-H-W-W-W-W-H.