Melodic Minor
Definition
The melodic minor scale is another variation of the natural minor scale. When ascending, both the sixth and seventh degrees are raised by one half step, but when descending, they return to their original positions.
Analogy
Picture a roller coaster ride that starts off slow and calm, then suddenly speeds up and becomes more exciting before slowing down again. The melodic minor scale follows a similar pattern of raising notes when going up and returning them to their original positions when going down.
Related terms
Natural Minor: The basic form of a minor scale without any alterations to its degrees.
Harmonic Minor: A variation of the natural minor scale where the seventh degree is raised by one half step to create tension and stronger resolutions.
Tonic: The first note or key center in a musical piece. In melodic minors, the raised sixth degree helps establish this tonal center.
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