E natural minor scale
The E natural minor scale, also known as the E Aeolian mode, is a fundamental minor scale with one sharp (F♯). It is the relative minor of the G major scale and is widely used in rock, metal, and folk music. This scale forms the basis for many popular guitar-based compositions due to its natural relationship with standard guitar tuning, where E is the lowest open string.
The scale follows the natural minor pattern: E to F♯ (whole), F♯ to G (half), G to A (whole), A to B (whole), B to C (half), C to D (whole), and D to E (whole). This creates the distinctive minor tonality that is particularly effective in expressing melancholic or dramatic musical themes.
E natural minor is especially popular in rock and metal music, where its relationship to the standard guitar tuning (E-A-D-G-B-E) makes it particularly accessible and sonorous. The scale shares its key signature with G major, featuring one sharp (F♯), making it an excellent introduction to minor scales with accidentals. Many famous guitar riffs and solos are built around this scale, demonstrating its versatility in modern music composition.
E 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
- E Aeolian scale, E Aeolian mode, Em natural scale, E pure minor scale
Related scales
Here are some scales that are related to the E natural minor scale. Or browse all piano scales.
E harmonic minor scale
2-1-2-2-1-3-1
E Ionian scale
2-2-1-2-2-2-1
E major scale
2-2-1-2-2-2-1
E melodic minor scale
2-1-2-2-2-2-1