THEORY HELPERA Harmonic Minor Scale
Classical tension, exotic
What is the A Harmonic Minor Scale?
The Harmonic Minor scale raises the 7th degree of natural minor, creating a dramatic augmented 2nd interval between the 6th and 7th degrees. This exotic-sounding gap gives the scale its characteristic classical and Middle Eastern flavor.
Interval Pattern: W-H-W-W-H-3H-H
Scale Notes and Intervals
A Harmonic Minor
DramaticA 1
B 2
C 3
D 4
E 5
F 6
G# 7
Notes:
A -B -C -D -E -F -G#
Intervals:
WHWWHA H
Keyboard Visualization
How to Play A Harmonic Minor on Piano
Scale Properties
Mood
DramaticCharacter
Classical tension, exoticGenres
Classical, Metal, TranceNotes in Scale
7 notes: A, B, C, D, E, F, G#Category
Minor VariantsIntervals
W-H-W-W-H-3H-HHistory and Origins
The Background of the Harmonic Minor Scale
Developed during the Baroque period to provide a leading tone in minor keys, enabling stronger harmonic progressions. The scale became essential for classical composition and later found new life in neoclassical metal and trance music.
Musical Characteristics
Key Features of the A Harmonic Minor Scale
- Raised 7th degree creates leading tone
- Augmented 2nd interval between 6th and 7th
- Strong V-i resolution capability
- Exotic, Middle Eastern flavor
Famous Songs Using This Scale
Popular Tracks in A Harmonic Minor
- Hava Nagila (Traditional)
- Phantom of the Opera - Andrew Lloyd Webber
- Misirlou - Dick Dale
- Flight of the Bumblebee - Rimsky-Korsakov
Playing Tips
How to Practice the A Harmonic Minor Scale
The augmented 2nd between b6 and 7 is the signature sound - use it! Perfect for building tension before resolution. Essential for playing over V7 chords in minor keys.
Circle of Fifths Position
A in the Circle of Fifths
Major
Minor
Selected