Thus, for instance, the A natural minor scale can be built by lowering the third, sixth, and seventh degrees of the A major scale by one semitone: Because of this, we say that a number without a flat represents a major (or perfect) interval, while a number with a flat represents a minor interval. By making use of flat symbols ( ♭) this notation thus represents notes by how they deviate from the notes in the major scale. This notation is based on the major scale, and represents each degree (each note in the scale) by a number, starting with the tonic (the first, lowest note of the scale). In this way, a natural minor scale is represented by the following notation: For instance, since the 6th degree of F major is D, the relative minor of F major is D minor.Ī natural minor scale can also be constructed by altering a major scale with accidentals. Every major key has a relative minor, which starts on the 6th scale degree or step. You can download the audio file.īecause of this, the key of A minor is called the relative minor of C major. Audio playback is not supported in your browser.
