Natural minor - Piano
The natural minor scale, also called the Aeolian scale, is the purest form of the minor scale. Its melancholic and introspective character makes it a preferred choice for expressing deep emotions.
Intervals table
| Degree | I | II | III | IV | V | VI | VII |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Interval | Root | Major second | Minor third | Perfect fourth | Perfect fifth | Augmented fifth | Minor seventh |
| Semitones | 0 | 2 | 3 | 5 | 7 | 8 | 10 |
Formula: 1 - 2 - 3 - 4 - 5 - 6 - 7
Theoretical construction
The natural minor scale is built following a specific series of intervals that differs from the major scale. The presence of a minor third (3 half steps) instead of a major third (4 half steps) gives the scale its minor character. The important degrees are: I (tonic), III (minor third), V (perfect fifth), and VII (subtonic). This scale is the 6th mode of the major scale (Aeolian mode).
Position examples
Example with A Natural minor
