Natural minor scale

Definition

The natural minor scale is a seven-note scale that follows a specific pattern of whole and half steps, providing a distinct sound characterized by its darker and more somber tonality compared to major scales. It consists of the following intervals: whole, half, whole, whole, half, whole, whole. This scale serves as the foundation for understanding minor scales in general, including harmonic and melodic variations, and connects closely to solfège systems, transposition techniques, and the construction of scales and arpeggios.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The natural minor scale is also known as the Aeolian mode in modal music theory.
2. It contains the same notes as its relative major scale but starts on the sixth degree of that major scale.
3. In terms of keyboard instruments, the natural minor scale can be easily visualized as using only white keys when starting on A.
4. The natural minor scale is fundamental for improvisation and composition in many genres, especially in classical and popular music.
5. This scale provides the basis for creating chord progressions that convey a more melancholic or introspective mood.

Review Questions

• How does the natural minor scale differ from its relative major scale, and what implications does this have for musical composition?
  • The natural minor scale differs from its relative major scale in that it starts on the sixth degree of that major scale. For example, A natural minor shares the same notes as C major but has a different tonal center. This shift in starting note creates a unique sound with a darker quality, influencing composers to utilize it for creating more somber or emotional pieces. Understanding this relationship is key to effective composition across various musical styles.
• Discuss how solfège can be applied to both natural minor scales and major scales and why this is important for musicians.
  • Solfège uses syllables to represent pitches within scales, making it an effective tool for learning both natural minor and major scales. For instance, in A natural minor, the notes are sung using 'la', 'ti', 'do', 're', 'mi', 'fa', 'sol', which highlights its unique intervals compared to C major's 'do', 're', 'mi'. This understanding is crucial for musicians as it aids in sight-singing and ear training, allowing them to navigate through different tonalities effortlessly.
• Evaluate the significance of understanding the natural minor scale in relation to transposition and performance practices.
  • Understanding the natural minor scale is essential when it comes to transposition because it allows musicians to maintain the character of a piece when shifting it to different keys. When transposing music that utilizes a natural minor scale, players must recognize the specific intervals so they can accurately recreate the sound. In performance practices, knowing how to apply this scale helps musicians interpret pieces with emotional depth and authenticity, particularly when dealing with genres that emphasize expressiveness like classical or jazz.

Related terms

Harmonic Minor Scale: A variation of the natural minor scale that raises the seventh note by a half step, creating a distinctive leading tone that adds tension and resolution.

Solfège: A music education method used to teach pitch and sight singing, employing syllables like 'do', 're', 'mi', which can be adapted for both major and minor scales.

Arpeggio:

A musical technique where the notes of a chord are played in sequence rather than simultaneously, often derived from the notes of a scale.