key term - Natural Minor Scale

Definition

The natural minor scale is a seven-note scale that is derived from the major scale by lowering the third, sixth, and seventh degrees. It has a distinct sound characterized by its darker and more somber quality compared to the major scale. The natural minor scale serves as the foundation for diatonic chords and their harmonic functions within a key, often expressed using Roman numerals.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The natural minor scale is constructed with the following intervals: whole step, half step, whole step, whole step, half step, whole step, whole step.
2. In a natural minor scale, the tonic chord is typically represented as a minor triad when using Roman numerals, while the dominant chord (fifth degree) is a major triad.
3. Each natural minor scale has a relative major scale that is located three half steps above its tonic.
4. The seventh degree of the natural minor scale does not create a leading tone, which contributes to its distinct sound and resolution tendencies.
5. Diatonic chords formed from the natural minor scale include: i (minor), ii° (diminished), III (major), iv (minor), v (minor), VI (major), and VII (major).

Review Questions

• How does the construction of the natural minor scale affect its relationship with diatonic chords?
  • The construction of the natural minor scale, which includes lowered third, sixth, and seventh degrees compared to the major scale, directly influences the qualities of the diatonic chords formed from it. This means that the tonic chord will be a minor triad (i), while the fifth degree chord is also minor (v). As a result, this creates a unique set of chords that maintain the overall somber quality associated with the natural minor sound.
• Discuss how Roman numeral analysis is applied to chords built on a natural minor scale and its implications for harmony.
  • Roman numeral analysis in a natural minor scale utilizes lowercase numerals for minor chords and uppercase for major chords. For instance, in A natural minor, we identify chords like i (A minor), iv (D minor), and V (E major). This notation helps musicians understand how these chords function within their key and allows for clearer communication of harmonic progressions during composition or performance.
• Evaluate how transitioning from a natural minor scale to its harmonic counterpart impacts musical expression and tonal clarity.
  • Transitioning from a natural minor scale to its harmonic version introduces an elevated seventh degree, creating a leading tone that enhances harmonic progression and tension. This change allows composers to build stronger resolutions and express more complex emotions within their music. By incorporating this leading tone, pieces in harmonic minor can achieve greater tonal clarity and a heightened sense of directionality in their melodies and harmonies.

Related terms

Relative Major:

The major scale that shares the same key signature as a given natural minor scale, which is built on the third degree of the minor scale.

Diatonic Chords:

Chords that are built using only the notes from a specific scale, such as the natural minor scale, creating harmonies that align with its tonal center.

Harmonic Minor Scale:

A variation of the natural minor scale that raises the seventh degree, creating a leading tone that enhances harmonic movement.