F natural minor scale
The F natural minor scale, also known as the F Aeolian mode, features four flats (A♭, B♭, D♭, E♭) in its key signature. It is the relative minor of the A♭ major scale. This scale is widely used in classical and romantic music, offering a rich palette for emotional expression. Its relationship to the F harmonic minor and F melodic minor scales provides composers with versatile options for creating complex harmonic progressions.
The scale follows the natural minor pattern: F to G (whole), G to A♭ (half), A♭ to B♭ (whole), B♭ to C (whole), C to D♭ (half), D♭ to E♭ (whole), and E♭ to F (whole). This progression creates a deeply expressive minor tonality that is particularly effective in romantic and contemporary compositions.
F natural minor is frequently used in orchestral music, where its four-flat signature creates a warm, mellow sound that works well with many instruments. The scale is particularly effective in creating emotional depth in film scores and classical compositions. Its relationship to F major provides opportunities for modal mixture, while its connection to A♭ major allows for smooth modulations between relative keys. The scale's balanced structure makes it equally suitable for melodic writing and harmonic development, and its moderate complexity provides a good challenge for advancing musicians while remaining accessible.
F 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
- F Aeolian scale, F Aeolian mode, Fm natural scale, F pure minor scale
Related scales
Here are some scales that are related to the F natural minor scale. Or browse all piano scales.
F harmonic minor scale
2-1-2-2-1-3-1
F Ionian scale
2-2-1-2-2-2-1
F major scale
2-2-1-2-2-2-1
F melodic minor scale
2-1-2-2-2-2-1