This is a continuation of the previous lesson, on minor scales. The last of the three minor scales covered here is the melodic minor scale.
The Melodic Minor Scale:
This scale was created because the augmented second (three semitones) taking place between the sixth and seventh notes in the Harmonic minor can be awkward, especially in vocal music. Thusly the Melodic Minor Scale was created. The confusing part about it is that it differs depending upon whether it is ascending or descending. While ascending, the Melodic Minor Scale keeps the raised seventh note from the Harmonic Minor Scale, but also raises the sixth note. The descending Melodic Minor Scale is the same as the Natural Minor. This gives the Ascending scale a semitone pattern of 2:1:2:2:2:2:1. Below you will find the Ascending Melodic Minor Scale, the descending is omitted since it is identical to the Natural Minor from the previous lesson.
A melodic minor: A, B, C, D, E, F#, G#, A.
Bb melodic minor: C, Db, Eb, F, G, A, Bb.
B melodic minor: B, C#, D, E, F#, G#, A#, B.
C melodic minor: C, D, Eb, F, G, A, B, C.
C# melodic minor: C#, D#, E#, F#, G#, A#, B##, C#.
D melodic minor: D, E, F, G, A, B, C#, D.
Eb melodic minor: Eb, F, Gb, Ab, Bb, C, D, Eb.
E melodic minor: E, F#, G, A, B, C#, D#, E.
F melodic minor: F, G, Ab, Bb, C, D, E, F.
F# melodic minor: F#. G#, A, B, C#, D#, E#, F#.
G melodic minor: G, A, Bb, C, D, E, F#, G.
Ab melodic minor: Ab, Bb, Cb, Db, Eb, F, G, Ab.
All of the minor scales are used in different circumstances, mostly depending on the composer’s preferences and the musical style.
The Circle of Fifths
The Circle of fifths is a nifty little tool that can be used to quickly find out what key signature a scale is in (as long as it is a major or natural minor scale.)
Looking at the Circle of Fifths above, you’ll notice Major scales on the outside of the circle, and minor scales on the inside of the circle. The scales that share the same key signature are known as relative scales. So for example, C Major is the relative major of A Minor. And reversely, A Minor is the relative minor of C Major. Note that The Circle of Fifths also shows some of the Enharmonic scales.
Good stuff
Now, *I* don’t have to post it, I’ll just refer over to you.
At Berklee, we were taught that a melodic minor scale is simply a major scale with a lowered third. Little distinction was made between ascending and descending, although you point out the difference here so well.
So, that’s why we have to know our major scales inside and out! Everything flows from them. Great post!