G♯ melodic minor scale
The G♯ melodic minor scale (also known as G-sharp melodic minor or G♯m melodic) is a sophisticated variant of the G♯ natural minor scale. This scale is enharmonically equivalent to the A♭ melodic minor scale. It features raised sixth and seventh degrees when ascending (E♯ and F𝄪), while descending it returns to the natural minor form, making it a valuable scale for both classical and jazz contexts.
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 reverts to the natural minor: 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 modern jazz theory, the G♯ melodic minor scale is frequently used in both directions, known as the "jazz minor" scale. It's particularly useful over G♯m(maj7) chords and for creating altered dominant sounds. The scale shares interesting relationships with both the G♯ harmonic minor and E major scales, offering rich possibilities for modal interchange and harmonic exploration. Its unique sound, with the raised sixth and seventh degrees, creates tension and resolution that's essential in both classical and contemporary music.
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
- G♯m melodic scale, G-sharp minor melodic scale, G♯ jazz minor scale, G# melodic minor
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♯ major scale
2-2-1-2-2-2-1
G♯ natural minor scale
2-1-2-2-1-2-2