Natural minor scale

Definition

The natural minor scale is a seven-note scale that follows a specific pattern of whole and half steps, creating a distinct sound characterized by its darker, more somber quality compared to major scales. This scale can be derived from the major scale by lowering the third, sixth, and seventh degrees, which results in a unique interval structure that influences melody writing by providing a different emotional palette for composers and songwriters.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The natural minor scale follows the pattern of whole and half steps as: W-H-W-W-H-W-W.
2. In C major, the corresponding natural minor scale is A natural minor, which consists of the notes A, B, C, D, E, F, and G.
3. The intervals between the first (tonic) and the second degree (supertonic) is a whole step, while the interval between the seventh (leading tone) and the eighth (octave) is a half step.
4. Natural minor scales are commonly used in various genres like classical, rock, jazz, and pop, allowing for expressive and emotional melodies.
5. Understanding the natural minor scale is essential for creating harmonies that evoke feelings of melancholy or introspection in songwriting.

Review Questions

• How does the structure of the natural minor scale differ from that of the major scale, and how does this influence melody writing?
  • The natural minor scale differs from the major scale primarily in its intervals; it has a flattened third, sixth, and seventh degrees compared to the major scale. This altered structure creates a unique sound that evokes a more somber or melancholic mood. In melody writing, this allows composers to explore emotional depths not typically achieved with major scales, enabling them to craft music that resonates with feelings of sadness or introspection.
• Discuss how the natural minor scale relates to other minor scales like harmonic and melodic minors in terms of their use in composition.
  • The natural minor scale serves as the foundation for both harmonic and melodic minors. The harmonic minor raises the seventh degree to create tension and a leading tone back to the tonic, making it useful for dramatic resolutions. The melodic minor alters both the sixth and seventh degrees when ascending to add complexity but reverts to the natural form when descending. Understanding these relationships allows composers to choose the appropriate scale for achieving specific emotional effects in their pieces.
• Evaluate how understanding the natural minor scale enhances a songwriter's ability to convey emotion through music.
  • Understanding the natural minor scale equips songwriters with tools to express a wide range of emotions effectively. By using its distinct intervals, songwriters can create melodies that evoke feelings such as sadness or longing. Additionally, recognizing how this scale interacts with various chord progressions enables writers to construct harmonies that amplify these emotions. Thus, mastering the natural minor scale allows songwriters to craft compelling narratives through their music, enhancing their overall creative expression.

Related terms

Scale Degrees: The individual notes of a scale, identified by their position relative to the tonic or root note, each of which has a specific function in creating harmony and melody.

Harmonic Minor Scale: A variation of the natural minor scale that raises the seventh degree, adding a leading tone that creates a stronger resolution back to the tonic, often used to create tension in music.

Melodic Minor Scale: A modified version of the natural minor scale that raises both the sixth and seventh degrees when ascending and returns to the natural form when descending, offering a mix of minor and major characteristics.