Natural Minor Scales on Piano
The natural minor scale is the second most important scale in Western music — a seven-note scale with a dark, melancholic, and expressive sound. Every major key has a relative minor that shares the same notes but starts on a different degree, creating a completely different emotional character.
Formula: W–H–W–W–H–W–W (whole–half–whole–whole–half–whole–whole)
Intervals: P1–M2–m3–P4–P5–m6–m7–P8
Scale degrees: 1–2–♭3–4–5–♭6–♭7
Sound: Dark, melancholic, expressive, emotional
Also known as: Aeolian mode (the sixth of the seven Greek modes)
Three forms of minor: The natural minor is the foundation, but classical music also uses the harmonic minor (raised 7th for a leading tone) and melodic minor (raised 6th and 7th ascending). Each form serves a different purpose — natural minor for melody, harmonic minor for harmony, melodic minor for smooth ascending lines.
The natural minor scale IS the Aeolian mode
Two names for the same notes — Aeolian is the 6th mode of the major scale. Browse all Aeolian mode keys.
Aeolian Mode pages →
Harmonic Minor Scale →
Natural minor with a raised 7th — adds a leading tone for stronger cadences. Used in classical and Spanish music.
Melodic Minor Scale →
Raised 6th and 7th ascending for smooth upward motion — the foundation of jazz minor harmony.
Natural Minor Scale in All 18 Keys
Select any key to see the full scale with notes, fingering, audio, and practice tips.
C Minor Scale
C# Minor Scale
Db Minor Scale
D Minor Scale
D# Minor Scale
Eb Minor Scale
E Minor Scale
F Minor Scale
F# Minor Scale
Gb Minor Scale
G Minor Scale
G# Minor Scale
Ab Minor Scale
A Minor Scale
A# Minor Scale
Bb Minor Scale
B Minor Scale
Cb Minor Scale
Want the full theory?
All three minor scale forms in one guide — when to use each, how they connect, and how to practice them.