Scale
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Definition of scale
A scale is a collection of tones arranged in a stepwise ascending or descending order, usually spanning one octave, sometimes two.
The above example in notation is of a theoretical nature, because notation without a clef on the staff does not define the pitches.
Different scales
Different scales can start and end on different tones or tonics, and alteration of tones can be used to achieve an even greater variety of scales. There are numerous scales used throughout the world, sometimes with different ascending and descending scales.
A larger set of scales can be derived from basic major, minor and diminished scales.
Basic major and minor scales
Major scale
The major scale consists of two identical tetrachords, each 1 - 1 - ½ separated by a whole tone, together: 1 1 ½ 1 1 1 ½
From the major scale the church modes are derived. As a church mode, this scale is called ionian.
Natural minor scale
From it is derived the natural minor scale or as church mode called aeolian mode, which runs from its 6th step: 1 ½ 1 1 ½ 1 1.
The natural minor scale is derived from the major scale and is called aeolian as part of the church modes.
Harmonic minor scale
The minor harmonic scale is derived from natural minor by not lowering the seventh step: 1 ½ 1 1 ½ 1½ ½.
This scale is not a diatonic scale, as there is an augmented second appearing between the 6th and 7th steps.
From the harmonic minor, the harmonic minor modes can be derived.
Melodic minor scale
The minor melodic scale is derived from both major and minor by combining the lower and upper tetrachords of each, 1 ½ 1 and 1 1 ½ thus running: 1 ½ 1 1 1 1 ½.
From the melodic minor, the melodic minor modes can be derived.
