D♭ melodic minor scale
The D♭ melodic minor scale (also known as D-flat melodic minor or D♭m melodic) is a sophisticated variation of the D♭ natural minor scale. Like all melodic minor scales, it features distinct ascending and descending forms, making it a versatile choice for both classical compositions and jazz improvisation. When ascending, the sixth and seventh degrees are raised (B♭ natural, C natural), while the descending form mirrors the natural minor scale, creating a unique harmonic color.
The ascending pattern of the D♭ melodic minor follows: D♭ to E♭ (whole), E♭ to F♭ (half), F♭ to G♭ (whole), G♭ to A♭ (whole), A♭ to B♭ (whole), B♭ to C (whole), and C to D♭ (half). In its descending form, it follows the natural minor scale pattern: D♭ to C♭ (whole), C♭ to B♭♭ (whole), B♭♭ to A♭ (half), A♭ to G♭ (whole), G♭ to F♭ (whole), F♭ to E♭ (half), and E♭ to D♭ (whole).
In jazz theory, the D♭ melodic minor scale is often used in both directions as the "jazz minor" scale, particularly over Dm(maj7) chords or as a source of altered dominants. The scale's unique intervallic structure makes it valuable for creating modal harmony and sophisticated melodic lines. It's especially effective when used with the D♭ harmonic minor and C♯ melodic minor scales (its enharmonic equivalent) for creating rich harmonic textures and melodic variations.
D♭ melodic minor scale details
Information and technical details of the scale.
- Category
- western
- Type
- Heptatonic (7 notes per octave)
- Intervals
- 1 2 ♭3 4 5 6 7 1
- Formula
- 2-1-2-2-2-2-1
- Also known as
- D♭m melodic scale, D-flat minor melodic scale, D♭ jazz minor scale, Db melodic minor
- Enharmonic equivalents
Related scales
Here are some scales that are related to the D♭ melodic minor scale. Or browse all piano scales.
D♭ harmonic minor scale
2-1-2-2-1-3-1
D♭ major scale
2-2-1-2-2-2-1
D♭ natural minor scale
2-1-2-2-1-2-2