Scales

A scale is an ordered collection of notes following a specific pattern of whole steps (W) and half steps (H).

Scale Formulas

Major (Ionian)

W-W-H-W-W-W-H

Natural Minor (Aeolian)

W-H-W-W-H-W-W

Harmonic Minor

W-H-W-W-H-WH-H

Melodic Minor (ascending)

W-H-W-W-W-W-H

Major Pentatonic

W-W-WH-W-WH

Minor Pentatonic

WH-W-W-WH-W

Blues

WH-W-H-H-WH-W

Root Note

Scale Type

C Major (Ionian): C — D — E — F — G — A — B

Modes are scales built by starting on different degrees of the major scale. Each mode has a unique character.

1. Ionian (Major)

2. Dorian

3. Phrygian

4. Lydian

5. Mixolydian

6. Aeolian (Natural Minor)

7. Locrian

Question 1 of 4Score: 0

What scale do you hear?