The Natural Minor Scale

There are two primary emotional qualities in music: the bright and happy Major vs the moody and edgy Minor. They allow you to evoke a particular mood throughout a song or to change the mood between sections.

There are several different versions of Minor Scales, but the essential difference between the Major and Minor qualities comes down to a single note: the 3rd scale degree. The Major Scale has a Major 3rd degree, while all Minor Scales have a Minor 3rd degree. This small difference in interval quality, and its resulting emotional effect, is one of the most powerful in music.

The most common minor scale used is the Natural Minor Scale and this is where you should begin your journey into the shades of minor tonalities.