G melodic minor scale
The G melodic minor scale (also known as Gm melodic) is a sophisticated variation of the G natural minor scale. Following the melodic minor pattern, it features raised sixth and seventh degrees (E natural and F♯) in its ascending form, while the descending form reverts to the natural minor scale. This scale has been essential in both classical composition and jazz improvisation, offering unique melodic possibilities.
The ascending pattern follows: G to A (whole), A to B♭ (half), B♭ to C (whole), C to D (whole), D to E (whole), E to F♯ (whole), and F♯ to G (half). The descending form follows the natural minor scale: G to F (whole), F to E♭ (whole), E♭ to D (half), D to C (whole), C to B♭ (whole), B♭ to A (half), and A to G (whole).
In jazz theory and performance, the G melodic minor scale is commonly used in both directions as the "jazz minor" scale, particularly over Gm(maj7) chords. It serves as a fundamental source for modal harmony and altered dominant sounds. The scale has important relationships with both the G harmonic minor and E♭ major scales. Its versatile nature makes it particularly valuable in various musical contexts, from baroque compositions to modern jazz, where its distinctive sound adds sophistication to melodic lines and harmonic progressions.
G 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
- Gm melodic scale, G minor melodic scale, G jazz minor scale
Related scales
Here are some scales that are related to the G melodic minor scale. Or browse all piano scales.
G harmonic minor scale
2-1-2-2-1-3-1
G Ionian scale
2-2-1-2-2-2-1
G major scale
2-2-1-2-2-2-1
G natural minor scale
2-1-2-2-1-2-2