The harmonic minor scale is a musical scale that is widely used in various genres of music, including classical, jazz, and metal. In this article, we will explore the theory behind the B harmonic minor scale
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Notes on the B harmonic minor scale
The B Harmonic Minor Scale is a musical scale that consists of seven notes. It starts and ends on a B natural note. The primary purpose of creating Harmonic Minor scales is to assist with chords, but they are also used in melodies. This scale is found in a diverse range of music genres, from classical music by Mozart to pop music by Katy Perry and even in neo-classical metal. The notes that make up the B Harmonic Minor Scale include: B, C#, D, E, F#, G, A#, and B.
The B harmonic minor scale intervals
The Harmonic Minor Scale is similar to the Natural Minor Scale, but with one difference. The 7th degree of the scale is raised by a semitone. This alteration changes the major 2nd interval between the 6th and 7th notes to an augmented 2nd. The intervals in the B Harmonic Minor Scale are provided below, and it is essential to note that these intervals will remain the same for all Harmonic Minor Scales.
The Melodic Minor Scale Formula
The Harmonic Minor Scale is created from the Natural Minor Scale, but with a raised 7th degree. The tone and semitone pattern for this scale is listed below.
B Harmonic Minor Modes
The Natural Minor Scale is identical to the Aeolian mode. Therefore, if we raise the 7th note of the Aeolian, we will get the Harmonic Minor Scale, which is written as Aeolian #7. The modes have a unique feature where they all connect together. For example, A Aeolian has the same notes as B Locrian, except B Locrian starts on a B. C Ionian also has the same notes, but it starts and ends on a C. We can apply this approach to create modes for B Harmonic Minor, and the mode names and notes are listed below.
Play B harmonic Minor
On the piano
You can use the provided diagram to play the B Harmonic Minor Scale.
On the guitar
The Harmonic Minor Scale can be played in various positions on the guitar. Below is the standard position starting on a B. This shape can be moved up and down the neck to play different Harmonic Minor Scales.
The Key Signature Of B harmonic Minor
When playing the Harmonic Minor Scale, it is commonly used in sections in a minor key. This implies that if we are playing B Harmonic Minor, our piece will be in the key of B (natural) Minor. Since B minor is the relative minor of D major, it has a key signature of two sharps.
B harmonic Minor In Different Clefs
Below is the B Harmonic Minor Scale written in the treble clef, bass clef, alto clef and tenor clef including both ascending and descending.
Treble clef
Bass clef
Alto clef
Tenor clef
