Whole-step, half-step, whole-step, whole-step, half-step, augmented 2nd, half-step.Īs noted above, the W – h – W – W – h – W1/2 – h formula can be applied to any starting pitch to create a harmonic minor scale. The formula for the harmonic minor scale is: Simply begin with the starting pitch (the tonic, or scale degree 1) and add the pitches above it spaced out according to the formula.
Just like every other scale, the harmonic minor scale can be encapsulated in a formula and moved all around the even-tempered 12 pitches of our pitch system so that any starting note can be expanded into a harmonic minor scale. The harmonic minor scale is the only scale that features this incredibly distinctive interval, and whether or not musicians choose to avoid this sound informs how they use the harmonic minor scale when writing in melodic contexts, as we will see in the examples at the end of the article. The flip side of raising scale degree 7 is that it creates an augmented 2nd between scale degrees 6 and 7. The harmonic minor scale is a different animal, in that its use is primarily geared towards harmony, and the interval that results from the raised 7th poses a challenge in the melodic context. These differences are intended to inform the writing of strong melodies, hence the name melodic minor. The melodic minor scale can be thought of as a natural minor scale that has been modified to account for the approach to and departure from tonic, in that it features raised scale degrees 6 and 7 to create a tendency toward the tonic in the ascending scale (approaching tonic), but not in the descending scale (departing tonic). The natural minor scale is the Aeolian mode without any modifications.
Though the harmonic minor scale shares a great deal in common with the other two heptatonic minor scales, its distinction allows it to serve a unique function in music written in minor keys.
Why not consider sharpening your knowledge on the two other minor scales while you’re here…?
#D HARMONIC MINOR SCALE HOW TO#
In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the theory behind the harmonic minor scale, including both how to build it and how to use it, before listing some examples of its use in popular music. The raised scale degree 7 in the harmonic minor scale makes strong dominant-function chords possible because of the tendency of the raised 7th to resolve upwards by step to the tonic. The harmonic minor scale is so-named because of its role in shoring up functional harmony in a minor key.