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The G Harmonic Minor Scale Theory

The G Harmonic Minor scale is a diatonic scale that starts and ends on the note G natural. This type of scale was developed primarily to assist with chords, but it is also present in melodies. The scale is used in a diverse range of musical genres, from classical composers like Mozart to contemporary artists like Katy Perry and even neo-classical metal.

NOTES ON THE G HARMONIC MINOR SCALE

The notes of the G Harmonic Minor Scale are: G, A, Bb, C, D, Eb, F#, G

G HARMONIC MINOR INTERVALS

The harmonic minor scale is similar to the natural minor scale, except for the 7th degree being 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 G Harmonic Minor scale can be observed below. It is important to note that these intervals will remain consistent across all harmonic minor scales.

G Harmonic Minor Intervals
G Harmonic Minor Intervals

G HARMONIC MINOR MODES

The natural minor scale is equivalent to the Aeolian mode. By raising the 7th of the Aeolian mode, we obtain the harmonic minor scale. This is referred to as Aeolian #7. One of the advantages of modes is that they are interconnected. For instance, A Aeolian shares the same notes as B Locrian, with the exception of starting on a B. Similarly, C Ionian has the same notes as A Aeolian, but it begins and concludes on a C.

We can utilize this method to create modes for G Harmonic Minor. The mode names and notes are provided below.

G Harmonic Minor Modes
G Harmonic Minor Modes

HOW TO PLAY THE G HARMONIC MINOR SCALE

On piano

To play the G harmonic minor scale, you can refer to the diagram provided below.

Play G harmonic minor on piano
Play G harmonic minor on piano

On guitar

The harmonic minor scale can be played in several position on the guitar. Here is the standard position starting on a G. This shape can be moved up and down the neck to play different harmonic minor scales. 

G Harmonic Minor with note names
G Harmonic Minor with note names

THE KEY SIGNATURE OF THE G HARMONIC MINOR

There are multiple positions on the guitar where the harmonic minor scale can be played. The standard position for this scale begins on a G, and it can be shifted up and down the neck to play various harmonic minor scales.

G HARMONIC MINOR ON CLEFS

Below is the G Harmonic Minor Scale written in the treble clef, bass clef, alto clef and tenor clef including both ascending and descending.

Treble Clef

G Harmonic Minor - Treble Clef
G Harmonic Minor – Treble Clef

Bass Clef

G Harmonic Minor - Bass Clef
G Harmonic Minor – Bass Clef

Alto Clef

G Harmonic Minor - Alto Clef
G Harmonic Minor – Alto Clef

Tenor Clef

G Harmonic Minor - Tenor Clef
G Harmonic Minor – Tenor Clef

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