Harmonic minor

Definition

The harmonic minor scale is a seven-note scale derived from the natural minor scale by raising the seventh note, which creates a unique interval structure and a distinct sound. This alteration enhances the leading tone's pull to the tonic, giving the scale a strong sense of resolution, especially in harmonic contexts. It is commonly used in classical music and other genres to create tension and resolve in chord progressions.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The harmonic minor scale is built using the same notes as the natural minor scale but has a raised seventh degree, creating an augmented second interval between the sixth and seventh degrees.
2. In the context of chords, the harmonic minor scale leads to the formation of dominant seventh chords that can resolve strongly back to the tonic chord, which is especially useful in creating cadences.
3. Harmonic minor scales are often associated with genres that require dramatic tension, such as classical music, jazz, and various forms of folk music.
4. The interval structure of the harmonic minor scale (W-H-W-W-H-W+H-H) creates a distinctive sound, often described as exotic or Middle Eastern due to its augmented second interval.
5. The harmonic minor scale is frequently used in melodic lines and improvisation, providing composers and performers with a tool for expressing emotion and tension in their music.

Review Questions

• How does the raised seventh note in the harmonic minor scale influence musical composition compared to the natural minor scale?
  • The raised seventh note in the harmonic minor scale creates a leading tone that pulls strongly toward the tonic, enhancing resolution in musical composition. This altered note allows for dominant seventh chords to be used effectively, which can resolve back to the tonic chord with greater tension and satisfaction. In contrast, the natural minor scale lacks this leading tone, resulting in a more ambiguous resolution and a different emotional quality.
• Discuss how the harmonic minor scale contributes to creating tension and resolution in chord progressions.
  • The harmonic minor scale contributes to tension and resolution through its unique interval structure and the presence of a leading tone. The raised seventh degree allows for dominant seventh chords that create anticipation before resolving back to the tonic. This interplay of tension and release is essential in establishing emotional depth within chord progressions, making it a valuable tool for composers seeking dramatic effects.
• Evaluate the role of the harmonic minor scale in various musical genres and how it shapes their characteristics.
  • The harmonic minor scale plays a significant role across multiple musical genres by shaping their emotional character and tonal structure. In classical music, it facilitates dramatic tension and complex harmonies through dominant resolutions. In jazz, it allows for improvisation that captures both tension and release, while in folk traditions, its exotic sound adds depth to melodies. Overall, this scale's versatility makes it essential for composers aiming to evoke specific feelings or atmospheres in their music.

Related terms

natural minor:

The natural minor scale is a seven-note scale formed by following a specific pattern of whole and half steps, characterized by the interval pattern W-H-W-W-H-W-W.

melodic minor:

The melodic minor scale consists of ascending and descending forms, where the sixth and seventh notes are raised when ascending but revert to their natural forms when descending.

leading tone: The leading tone is the seventh note of the scale that resolves up to the tonic, playing a crucial role in establishing tonal direction and tension.