Minor Keys and Scales
Pieces written in a minor key use notes taken from a minor scale. There are three types of minor scale – the natural minor scale, the harmonic minor scale and the melodic minor scale. Each one has its own distinctive sound, created by its particular pattern of tones and semitones. You can hear the difference in these three A minor scales. The degrees as they would relate to the major scale are written under the note names.
Notice the distance of 1½ tones between the 6th and 7th degrees of the harmonic minor scale. This scale is often described as having an Eastern sound.
In the A melodic minor scale the 6th and 7th notes are sharpened when ascending and returned to natural when descending.
This is the way the melodic minor is used in Classical music. However, in Jazz and other more modern styles, the melodic minor descends the same way it ascends. An easy way to think of this scale is as a major scale with a flattened third degree.
The melody of this duet (Guitar 1) is derived from the notes of the A natural minor scale. This melody contains a high A note, which is played at the 5th fret on the 1st string with the little finger (4th finger).
The harmony (Guitar 2) comes from both the natural minor and the harmonic minor, as indicated by the G# note in the E7 chord.
