A natural minor scale
The A natural minor scale, also known as the A Aeolian mode, is the most fundamental minor scale in Western music theory. It is the relative minor of the C major scale and uses all natural notes (white keys on a piano) from A to A. This scale is essential for understanding minor tonality and serves as the basis for other minor scale variations like the harmonic minor and melodic minor scales.
The A natural minor scale follows the pattern of whole and half steps: A to B (whole), B to C (half), C to D (whole), D to E (whole), E to F (half), F to G (whole), and G to A (whole). This pattern creates the characteristic melancholic and contemplative sound associated with minor scales.
As the relative minor of C major, the A natural minor scale shares the same key signature with no sharps or flats. This relationship between major and minor scales is fundamental to understanding key relationships in music theory. The scale is widely used in classical music, folk music, and contemporary genres, particularly in creating moody or introspective musical passages.
A natural 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
- 2-1-2-2-1-2-2
- Also known as
- A Aeolian scale, A Aeolian mode, Pure minor scale, Natural minor scale
Related scales
Here are some scales that are related to the A natural minor scale. Or browse all piano scales.
A harmonic minor scale
2-1-2-2-1-3-1
A Ionian scale
2-2-1-2-2-2-1
A major scale
2-2-1-2-2-2-1
A melodic minor scale
2-1-2-2-2-2-1