Our formula calls for it to be a half step. Notice that with a C natural minor, between the scale degrees D and E is normally a whole step. Otherwise, scroll down through the exercises. This example is a pdf file for you to download if you wish. A good technique for this is to remember that the half steps are between degrees 2-3 and 5-6. Therefore, the A natural minor scale is the relative minor to C Major.įor example #1 below, observe the formula used for constructing all the Natural Minor Scale. The A natural minor scale is a third lower and has the same key signature as C Major. The C Major scale has a key signature of no sharps or flats. The Natural Minor Scale is easy to remember because it is the relative minor scale to the major scale a third higher. It is a very good idea to use your piano keyboard along with this lesson to practice and hear the examples. As you improve your skills in this area, you will find it much easier to learn about other scales in music.Įach of these types of minor scales are built or constructed using a formula based around whole steps and half steps. And that is – Whole Steps and Half Steps. Understanding the minor scale is the same process used with other scales. This practice goes hand-in-hand with the learning of all the major scales as well. In general, a melody written in G major is felt to return to home base when it comes back to the note G.įor any beginner or intermediate musician, it is a requisite to learn about minor scales. The first note of the scale becomes the tonal center. A piece of music written in the key of G major is oriented towards the G major scale. Tonality helps us describe the emotions we hear within the music.Ī tonal center is defined by a scale. These are the two most common names for tonality. When we listen to a piece of music it may sound happy, cheerful, or sad and dark.

Tonality in music is the relationship between the notes and harmonies of a composition. Understanding the minor scale starts with the concept of tonality.

Harmonic minor scale formula