Natural minor scale
(or Aeolian mode scales)

Natural Minor Scale

The natural minor scale follows the formula: T - S - T - T - S - T - T

1. Start on any note (tonic)
2. Move up a whole step (T)
3. Move up a half step (S)
4. Move up a whole step (T)
5. Move up a whole step (T)
6. Move up a half step (S)
7. Move up a whole step (T)
8. Move up a whole step (T)

For example, if we start on the note A, applying the formula gives us the A natural minor scale:

• A - B - C - D - E - F - G - A

The natural minor scale is commonly used in descending melodies. However, when ascending, it is common to raise the 6th and 7th degrees by one semitone to create a melodic minor scale:

• A - B - C - D - E - F# - G# - A (Ascending)
• A - G - F - E - D - C - B - A (Descending)

This alteration in the ascending form allows for smoother melodic movement.

• A natural minor



• A# natural minor



• Bb natural minor



• B natural minor



• C natural minor



• C# natural minor



• D natural minor



• D# natural minor



• Eb natural minor



• E natural minor



• F natural minor



• F# natural minor



• G natural minor



• G# natural minor



• Ab natural minor