G natural minor scale
The G natural minor scale, also known as the G Aeolian mode, features two flats (B♭, E♭) in its key signature. It is the relative minor of the B♭ major scale. This scale forms the basis for the G harmonic minor and G melodic minor scales, which are important variations in classical and jazz contexts.
The scale follows the natural minor pattern: G to A (whole), A to B♭ (half), B♭ to C (whole), C to D (whole), D to E♭ (half), E♭ to F (whole), and F to G (whole). This progression creates a rich minor tonality that is both accessible and expressive, making it popular across many musical styles.
G natural minor is particularly prevalent in rock and metal music, where its relationship to the parallel G major scale (sharing the same tonic) creates opportunities for modal mixture and dramatic harmonic shifts. The scale's two-flat key signature makes it approachable for intermediate musicians while still offering enough complexity for advanced applications. It's often used in film scoring and video game music to create moody or dramatic atmospheres, and its versatility makes it a favorite among composers in various contemporary genres.
G 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
- G Aeolian scale, G Aeolian mode, Gm natural scale, G pure minor scale
Related scales
Here are some scales that are related to the G natural 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 melodic minor scale
2-1-2-2-2-2-1