The D Harmonic Minor scale is a type of diatonic scale that starts and ends on a D natural note. Although these scales were originally created to assist with chords, they can also be found in melodies. The scale has been used in a diverse range of musical genres, including compositions by Bach and Haydn, as well as in the film scores of Hans Zimmer.
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NOTES ON THE D HARMONIC MINOR SCALE
The notes of the D Harmonic Minor Scale are: D, E, F, G, A, Bb, C#, D
D HARMONIC MINOR SCALE INTERVALS
The harmonic minor scale is similar to the natural minor scale, with the exception of a raised 7th degree by a semitone. This alteration changes the major 2nd interval between the 6th and 7th notes to an augmented 2nd. The intervals in the D Harmonic Minor scale are listed below, and it is important to note that these intervals are consistent across all harmonic minor scales.
D HARMONIC MINOR MODES
The natural minor scale is equivalent to the Aeolian mode, which means that raising the 7th note of the Aeolian produces the harmonic minor scale, denoted as Aeolian #7. One of the advantages of modes is that they are interconnected. For example, A Aeolian and B Locrian have the same notes, but B Locrian begins on a B. C Ionian also has the same notes, but it starts and ends on a C.
By using this method, we can generate modes for D Harmonic Minor. The names and notes of these modes are outlined below.
HOW TO PLAY THE D HARMONIC MINOR
On Piano
You can use the diagram below to play the D harmonic minor scale
On Guitar
The guitar offers several positions for playing the harmonic minor scale. One of the most common positions begins on a D and can be used to play the standard shape. This shape can be easily moved up and down the neck to play different harmonic minor scales.
THE KEY SIGNATURE OF THE D HARMONIC MINOR
The harmonic minor scale is typically played in segments within a minor key. For instance, if we are playing D Harmonic Minor, our piece will be in the key of D (natural) Minor. Since D minor is the relative minor of F major, it has a key signature with one flat.
D HARMONIC MINOR IN CLEFS
Below is the D 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
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