Natural minor with raised 7th for a leading tone; creates V–i and the augmented second.
Harmonic Minor Scale
The Harmonic Minor scale modifies the Natural Minor by raising the 7th degree one semitone. This introduces a leading tone that resolves more strongly to the tonic and creates the distinctive augmented second interval between the 6th and 7th degrees. It’s common in classical, Middle Eastern, metal, and flamenco music.
Formula:
W – H – W – W – H – (W+H) – H
(“W+H” = augmented second, 3 semitones)
Example – A Harmonic Minor:
A B C D E F G♯ A
| Degree | Function (Roman) | Interval from Tonic | Characteristic |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | i | Unison | Tonic (Minor) |
| 2 | ii° | +2 | Supertonic diminished |
| 3 | III+ | +3 | Augmented mediant |
| 4 | iv | +5 | Subdominant minor |
| 5 | V | +7 | Major dominant (strong resolution) |
| 6 | VI | +8 | Minor 6th |
| 7 | vii° | +11 | Leading tone diminished |
| 8 | i | +12 | Octave |
That raised 7th (G♯) gives harmonic minor its “exotic” pull — the sound behind classical cadences and metal’s dark edge.
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