E melodic minor scale

The ascending form follows the pattern: E to F♯ (whole), F♯ to G (half), G to A (whole), A to B (whole), B to C♯ (whole), C♯ to D♯ (whole), and D♯ to E (half). The descending form follows the natural minor scale: E to D (whole), D to C (whole), C to B (half), B to A (whole), A to G (whole), G to F♯ (half), and F♯ to E (whole). This duality creates a unique melodic character that is both mysterious and resolute.

E melodic minor is particularly popular in metal and progressive rock, where its relationship to the guitar's standard tuning makes it naturally playable. In jazz contexts, the ascending form is often used in both directions, known as the "jazz minor" scale. The scale's raised sixth and seventh degrees in the ascending form create a smoother melodic line while maintaining the minor quality through the flatted third. This makes it especially effective for creating complex harmonic progressions and melodic phrases. The scale's relationship to both E major and E natural minor provides rich possibilities for modal mixture and harmonic development, particularly in genres that emphasize technical proficiency and harmonic sophistication.