Minor Scales
Minor scales give music a darker, more emotional quality. This week you will learn the three forms of the minor scale and train your ear to distinguish minor from major.
Learning Goals
Lesson Content
Natural Minor Scale
The natural minor scale follows the formula: W-H-W-W-H-W-W. It has a melancholic, dark character compared to the bright major scale.
- A Natural Minor: A - B - C - D - E - F - G - A (all white keys, like C major starting on A)
- E Natural Minor: E - F# - G - A - B - C - D - E
- D Natural Minor: D - E - F - G - A - Bb - C - D
Relative Major and Minor
Every major key has a relative minor that shares the same notes but starts on a different pitch. The relative minor starts on the 6th degree of the major scale. For example, A minor is the relative minor of C major — same notes, different home base.
Harmonic Minor
The harmonic minor raises the 7th degree by a half step, creating a strong pull back to the tonic. This gives it an exotic, dramatic sound. A Harmonic Minor: A - B - C - D - E - F - G# - A.
Melodic Minor
The melodic minor raises both the 6th and 7th degrees when ascending, and reverts to natural minor when descending. This smooths out the awkward leap in the harmonic minor.
Practice Activities
Activity 1: Play Minor Scales
On the Synthesizer, play A natural minor (all white keys starting on A), then A harmonic minor (raise G to G#). Compare the sound of each. Repeat with E minor and D minor.
Activity 2: Major vs Minor Ear Training
Use the Scale Identification game on Beginner. Your primary task is to tell major and minor apart. Listen for the emotional quality: does it sound happy (major) or sad (minor)?
Activity 3: Reading in Minor Keys
In the Note Reading game, try A minor (same key signature as C major — no sharps or flats) and E minor (one sharp, like G major). Get comfortable reading in these keys.