1. The seventh scale degree is raised in this form of minor. Depending
upon the starting pitch and the scale, this may use an accidental in the
form of either a sharp sign or a natural sign.
2. There are three instances of half steps in this form: 2–3, 5–6, and now
+7–8.
3. Because of the alteration the distance between 6 and 7 has been
expanded to form a “step and a half.” This was considered to be a
melodic “flaw.” While inherent and necessary to the form, it was
considered to be “un-singable” and in need of correction in
performance practice.
Figure 3.12
Other Examples of Harmonic Minor Scales
Audio 8
Other Harmonic Minor Scales
Melodic Minor
This perceived
melodic
flaw in Harmonic minor, the “step and a half” between scale
degrees 6 and 7, was subject to routine alteration as well. In order to eliminate this
awkward gap, composers routinely raised the sixth scale degree
as well as the
seventh
. Since this was done to correct the perceived melodic flaw, a third form of
the minor scale came to be recognized, called the Melodic Form of the Minor scale,
or simply
Melodic Minor
13
.
Figure 3.13
Natural, Harmonic, and Melodic Minor Scales
13. The second altered version of
the Minor scale. It is altered by
raising both the sixth and
seventh scale degrees.
Chapter 3 The Foundations Scale-Steps and Scales
3.2 Heptatonic Scales: The Major Scale, The Three Forms of the Minor Scale
98
