Melodic minor scale

Definition

The melodic minor scale is a musical scale that ascends with a raised sixth and seventh degree compared to the natural minor scale, and typically descends as a natural minor scale. This unique alteration allows for a smoother melodic line, making it particularly useful in both classical and jazz contexts. It helps to create tension and resolution in melodies while providing composers with greater flexibility in harmonic choices.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. When ascending, the melodic minor scale has the sixth and seventh degrees raised by a half step compared to the natural minor scale.
2. Descending, the melodic minor scale typically reverts to the natural minor form, where both the sixth and seventh degrees are not raised.
3. In classical music, the melodic minor scale is often used in conjunction with chord progressions to enhance melodic fluidity.
4. In jazz, musicians may use both ascending and descending forms of the melodic minor scale to create complex solos and improvisation.
5. The pattern of whole and half steps in the melodic minor scale is different for ascending (whole, half, whole, whole, whole, whole, half) versus descending (whole, whole, half, whole, whole, half, whole) forms.

Review Questions

• How does the melodic minor scale differ when ascending versus descending?
  • The melodic minor scale has a distinct difference between its ascending and descending forms. When ascending, it features a raised sixth and seventh degree compared to the natural minor scale, which allows for smoother melodic lines. However, when descending, it typically reverts to the natural minor scale without those alterations, using the original sixth and seventh degrees instead. This duality provides flexibility for composers in various musical contexts.
• Discuss how the use of the melodic minor scale can impact harmonic choices in composition.
  • The melodic minor scale significantly influences harmonic choices by introducing raised notes that create tension and resolution within musical phrases. The raised sixth and seventh degrees allow for more complex chord structures and progressions. Composers can use these altered notes to lead into dominant chords effectively or resolve back to tonic chords smoothly, enhancing the overall emotional effect of their compositions. This versatility makes it a valuable tool in both classical and jazz genres.
• Evaluate how understanding the melodic minor scale can enhance improvisational skills for jazz musicians.
  • Understanding the melodic minor scale is crucial for jazz musicians as it opens up a broader range of melodic possibilities during improvisation. By utilizing both its ascending and descending forms, musicians can create more intricate lines that reflect tension and resolution within their solos. This knowledge allows players to navigate chord changes more effectively while incorporating unique notes that can surprise listeners. Mastering this scale contributes to developing a personal style and elevating improvisational creativity.

Related terms

natural minor scale:

The natural minor scale is a diatonic scale that consists of seven notes, following the pattern of whole and half steps without any alterations.

harmonic minor scale:

The harmonic minor scale is a variation of the natural minor scale that raises the seventh degree, creating a distinctive leading tone that enhances harmonic progression.

scale degrees: Scale degrees refer to the individual notes within a scale, each identified by its position relative to the tonic or root note.