Minor scales offer a rich palette of sounds, often perceived as more reflective, melancholic, or exotic compared to major scales. They are essential for understanding a vast range of musical styles.
A minor scale is a seven-note musical scale (plus the octave) that often conveys a "sad," "serious," or "exotic" emotional quality. Like major scales, they form the basis for melodies and harmonies.
There are three main types of minor scales: Natural Minor, Harmonic Minor, and Melodic Minor. Each has a unique pattern of tones and semitones, resulting in distinct sounds and uses.
Key Idea:
Minor scales provide a different "flavor" to music compared to major scales, expanding the expressive possibilities for composers and musicians.
Question: What are the notes of the E Harmonic Minor scale?
(Hint: E natural minor scale is E – F♯ – G – A – B – C – D. For harmonic minor, raise the 7th degree.)
Show Answer
The notes are E – F♯ – G – A – B – C – D♯.
Lesson Summary
- Minor scales offer expressive alternatives to major scales.
- Natural Minor: T-S-T-T-S-T-T. Shares key signature with relative major.
- Harmonic Minor: Natural minor with a raised 7th degree (creates an augmented 2nd).
- Melodic Minor: Ascending: Natural minor with raised 6th and 7th. Descending: Usually natural minor.
- Relative Minor: Shares key signature with major key (3 semitones below major tonic).
- Parallel Minor: Shares tonic with major key, different key signature.
- Identify minor keys through key signature, final notes/chords, accidentals, and overall sound.