In this lesson we will look two types of minor scales, the harmonic minor and the melodic minor in the keys of G minor and B minor.
- The harmonic minor has the pattern T-S-T-T-S-3S-S (3S = 3 semitones).
- The melodic minor has one pattern on the way up and another on the way down:
- Ascending (from bottom): T-S-T-T-T-T-S
- Descending (from top): T-T-S-T-T-S-T
If you find it difficult to remember all the patterns of tones and semitones, try this method instead: learn the notes of three types of minor scale for A minor – they are easy to learn. Then write out the A minor scale and calculate whether each step is a tone (whole step), semitone (half step) or three semitones (three half steps). Then use the same pattern as a guide, to write out a new scale in a different key.
B minor harmonic scale
B minor melodic scale
G minor harmonic scale
G minor melodic scale
Scales Exercises
Hover your mouse over the questions (tap on mobiles) to reveal the answers.
Write the scale:
B minor melodic ascending
Add the correct clef and any necessary sharp or flat signs to make each of the scales named below. Don’t use key signatures.
E minor harmonic
A minor melodic
Bb major
Name the key:
1. 
2. 