The minor scale has three forms: natural
minor, harmonic minor,and melodic minor. These
have evolved over the centuries, and each form has its own unique
characteristics.
3
forms of the minor scale
natural
minor
This scale uses the pitches
naturally indicated by the key signature.
harmonic
minor
Raise the seventh scale
degree of the natural minor scale by one half step.
This results in a skip of 1 1/2 steps between the sixth
and seventh scale degrees. It also creates a half step
between seven and one (tonic).
melodic
minor
Ascending--Raise the sixth and seventh scale degrees
of the natural minor scale by one half step each.
Descending--Return the sixth and seventh scale degrees
to their original pitch as found in the natural minor
scale.
