Harmonic minor scale
Introduction
The harmonic minor scale is a musical scale that is widely used in Western music, particularly in the context of classical music and jazz. It is a variation of the natural minor scale, characterized by a raised seventh degree, which creates a distinctive sound that is both exotic and dramatic. This scale is essential for understanding the harmonic framework of minor key compositions and is frequently employed to facilitate chord progressions that lead to a strong resolution.
Structure and Construction
The harmonic minor scale is constructed by altering the natural minor scale. In a natural minor scale, the sequence of whole and half steps is as follows: whole, half, whole, whole, half, whole, whole. The harmonic minor scale modifies this pattern by raising the seventh degree by a half step, resulting in the sequence: whole, half, whole, whole, half, augmented second, half. This alteration introduces an augmented second interval between the sixth and seventh degrees, which is a defining characteristic of the harmonic minor scale.
For example, in the A harmonic minor scale, the notes are A, B, C, D, E, F, G♯, and A. The raised seventh degree, G♯, creates a leading tone that strongly resolves to the tonic, A, enhancing the scale's harmonic function.
Harmonic Function and Usage
The harmonic minor scale is primarily used to create harmonic tension and resolution in minor key compositions. The raised seventh degree serves as a leading tone, providing a sense of direction towards the tonic. This is particularly important in the context of dominant chords, where the leading tone resolves to the tonic, creating a satisfying sense of closure.
In addition to its role in harmonic progressions, the harmonic minor scale is also used melodically. However, due to the augmented second interval, it can sound awkward when used in melodic lines. To address this, composers often employ the melodic minor scale, which raises both the sixth and seventh degrees when ascending, and reverts to the natural minor form when descending.
Historical Context
The harmonic minor scale has its roots in the Baroque period, where it was used extensively in the works of composers such as Johann Sebastian Bach and George Frideric Handel. Its unique sound lent itself well to the expressive and ornate style of Baroque music. The scale continued to be a staple in the Classical period, with composers like Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart and Ludwig van Beethoven utilizing it to create dramatic contrasts and emotional depth.
In the Romantic period, the harmonic minor scale became even more prominent, as composers sought to explore new emotional and expressive possibilities. The scale's exotic sound was particularly appealing to composers like Franz Liszt and Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky, who used it to evoke a sense of mystery and drama.
Jazz and Contemporary Music
In jazz, the harmonic minor scale is used to create complex and interesting improvisations. Jazz musicians often employ the scale over minor ii-V-i progressions, where the raised seventh degree adds tension and color to the improvisation. The scale is also used in modal jazz, where its unique sound can be explored in a more static harmonic context.
Contemporary composers and musicians continue to use the harmonic minor scale in a variety of genres, from film scores to world music. Its distinctive sound remains a powerful tool for creating emotional and dramatic effects.
Variations and Related Scales
The harmonic minor scale is closely related to several other scales, including the melodic minor scale and the dorian scale. The melodic minor scale, as mentioned earlier, is an adaptation of the harmonic minor scale used to create smoother melodic lines. The dorian scale, on the other hand, is a mode of the major scale that shares some similarities with the harmonic minor scale, particularly in its use of the minor third and raised sixth degree.
Another related scale is the Phrygian dominant scale, which is derived from the harmonic minor scale by starting on its fifth degree. This scale is often used in Middle Eastern music and flamenco music, where its exotic sound is highly valued.
Harmonic Minor Modes
The harmonic minor scale gives rise to a set of modes, each with its own unique sound and characteristics. These modes are analogous to the modes of the major scale, but with the distinctive flavor of the harmonic minor scale. The modes of the harmonic minor scale are:
1. **Harmonic Minor (Aeolian ♯7)**: The first mode, identical to the harmonic minor scale itself. 2. **Locrian ♮6**: The second mode, characterized by a minor second and a major sixth. 3. **Ionian ♯5**: The third mode, featuring a major third and an augmented fifth. 4. **Dorian ♯4**: The fourth mode, with a raised fourth degree. 5. **Phrygian Dominant**: The fifth mode, also known as the Spanish Phrygian or Freygish scale, with a major third and a minor seventh. 6. **Lydian ♯2**: The sixth mode, featuring a raised second degree. 7. **Super Locrian (Altered Scale)**: The seventh mode, with a diminished second and diminished fifth.
Each of these modes can be used to create unique harmonic and melodic textures, expanding the expressive possibilities of the harmonic minor scale.