Chords Of A Minor Scale

Understanding the Chords of a Minor Scale: A Deep Dive for Musicians

The minor scale, with its evocative and often melancholic sound, forms the backbone of countless songs across various genres. Understanding its inherent chord possibilities unlocks a world of compositional creativity and harmonic richness. This in-depth guide will explore the chords of a minor scale, explaining their function, relationships, and how to effectively use them in your music. We'll cover everything from the basic triads to seventh chords and beyond, offering practical examples and insights for musicians of all levels.

Introduction to Minor Scales

Before diving into the chords, let's briefly revisit the minor scale itself. There are three main types of minor scales: natural minor, harmonic minor, and melodic minor. Each has a distinct character and chord structure. We'll primarily focus on the natural minor scale in this article, as it serves as the foundation for understanding the others.

A natural minor scale is built using a specific intervallic pattern: root - 2 - b3 - 4 - 5 - b6 - b7. The "b" indicates a flatted note, meaning it's lowered by a half-step. For example, in A natural minor, the notes are A - B - C - D - E - F - G. Notice the flattened third (C), sixth (F), and seventh (G) compared to a major scale. This flattened third is what gives the minor scale its characteristic melancholic or pensive quality.

The Diatonic Chords of the Natural Minor Scale

The diatonic chords of a scale are the chords built using only the notes within that scale. In a natural minor scale, we can build seven diatonic chords, each with its own unique function and character:

1. i - Minor Chord: This is the tonic chord, built on the root of the scale. It's the home base, providing stability and resolution. Example: In A minor, the i chord is Am (A-C-E).

2. ii - Diminished Chord: Built on the second degree, this chord is often used as a passing chord or to create tension leading to the V chord. Example: In A minor, the ii chord is Bdim (B-D-F).

3. iii - Minor Chord: Built on the third degree, this chord adds a slightly more complex feel than the tonic. It can create a sense of yearning or anticipation. Example: In A minor, the iii chord is Cm (C-Eb-G).

4. IV - Major Chord: This is a very important chord in the minor scale, often acting as a subdominant. It provides a brighter, more major-sounding contrast to the overall minor tonality. Example: In A minor, the IV chord is Dm (D-F-A).

5. V - Major Chord: The dominant chord, built on the fifth degree, is crucial for creating a strong sense of resolution back to the tonic. It creates a significant pull towards the i chord. Example: In A minor, the V chord is E7 (E-G#-B-D). Note the addition of the 7th, creating a dominant 7th chord.

6. vi - Major Chord: This chord, built on the sixth degree, provides another major contrast, offering a brighter sound. It often acts as a pre-dominant chord, leading smoothly to the V chord. Example: In A minor, the vi chord is Fmaj (F-A-C).

7. vii° - Diminished Chord: Built on the seventh degree, this chord creates a strong sense of tension and often resolves to the i chord. Example: In A minor, the vii° chord is Gdim (G-B-D).

Understanding Chord Function in the Minor Scale

The diatonic chords in a minor scale have specific functions within a harmonic progression. Understanding these functions allows you to create compelling and meaningful musical phrases.

• Tonic (i): Provides stability and resolution. It's the "home" chord.
• Subdominant (IV): Creates a feeling of anticipation leading towards the dominant.
• Dominant (V): Creates tension and a strong pull towards the tonic. Often the strongest chord in the progression.
• Pre-dominant (vi): Prepares the ear for the dominant chord.

Moving Beyond Triads: Seventh Chords and Extensions

While triads (three-note chords) form the basic building blocks, adding seventh intervals opens up a wider palette of harmonic possibilities. Adding seventh intervals to each of the seven diatonic chords of the natural minor scale significantly expands the harmonic possibilities.

• i7 (minor 7th): Am7 (A-C-E-G) – Retains the melancholic quality of the minor chord but adds depth.
• ii7 (half-diminished 7th): Bdim7 (B-D-F-A) – A highly chromatic chord, often used for color and tension.
• iii7 (minor 7th): Cm7 (C-Eb-G-Bb) – Similar to i7 but with a different flavor.
• IV7 (major 7th): Dm7 (D-F-A-C) – A major 7th chord adds a bright and jazzy feel to the progression.
• V7 (dominant 7th): E7 (E-G#-B-D) – The quintessential dominant 7th chord, creating a strong resolution to the tonic.
• vi7 (major 7th): Fmaj7 (F-A-C-E) – Adds a sophisticated, jazzy touch.
• vii°7 (diminished 7th): Gdim7 (G-B-D-F) – A highly dissonant chord, used sparingly for dramatic effect.

Furthermore, you can extend these chords by adding ninth, eleventh, and thirteenth intervals, creating even more complex harmonies. These extensions add richness and color to the sound, allowing for intricate harmonic textures.

Harmonic Minor Scale and its Chords

The harmonic minor scale alters the seventh degree of the natural minor scale, raising it a half-step. This change creates a stronger pull towards the tonic and modifies the character of the chords built upon it.

The most significant difference is the vii° chord, which becomes a major chord in the harmonic minor scale. This major chord creates a very strong leading tone to the tonic, leading to a more dramatic and forceful resolution. The other chords remain essentially the same, but their relationships and functions are subtly altered by the change in the seventh degree.

Melodic Minor Scale and its Chords

The melodic minor scale modifies both the sixth and seventh degrees of the natural minor scale, raising them a half-step when ascending. When descending, it usually reverts to the natural minor scale pattern. This creates a more lyrical and flowing melodic contour. The chords derived from the melodic minor scale are diverse, lending themselves to a variety of musical styles. However, because of the ascending and descending variations, the chord choices will depend on the direction of the melody.

Practical Applications and Compositional Techniques

Understanding the chords of the minor scale is crucial for effective songwriting and improvisation. Here are some practical compositional techniques:

• ii-V-i Progressions: This classic progression (e.g., Dm7-G7-Cm7) is a cornerstone of jazz and pop music. It utilizes the strong pull of the dominant towards the tonic.

• Utilizing Major Chords: The IV and vi major chords provide bright contrasts within the minor key, adding interest and preventing monotony.

• Chromaticism: Carefully incorporating chromatic chords (chords containing notes outside the scale) can add color and spice to the harmony. However, overuse can sound dissonant and jarring.

• Modal Interchange: Borrowing chords from parallel keys (major or relative major) can add a unique flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

• Q: What is the difference between a natural, harmonic, and melodic minor scale?

  • A: The natural minor scale has a flattened 3rd, 6th, and 7th degree from the major scale. The harmonic minor raises the 7th degree, creating a stronger pull to the tonic. The melodic minor raises both the 6th and 7th degrees ascending, returning to the natural minor pattern descending.

• Q: Can I use chords from different minor scales in the same song?

  • A: Yes, but carefully! Mixing chords from different minor scales can create a more complex and sophisticated sound, but it requires a good understanding of harmonic principles to avoid sounding dissonant or confusing.

• Q: How do I choose the right chords for my song?

  • A: The best way is through experimentation. Start with basic progressions and gradually introduce more complex harmonies. Let your ear be your guide!

• Q: Are there any resources to help me learn more?

  • A: There are numerous books, websites, and online courses dedicated to music theory and harmony. Searching for "music theory" or "harmony lessons" will yield a wealth of information.

Conclusion

Mastering the chords of the minor scale unlocks a universe of harmonic possibilities. From the simple triads to the complex seventh chords and extensions, the versatility of the minor scale allows for a wide range of emotional expression in your music. By understanding the function and relationships of each chord, you can create powerful and compelling musical compositions that resonate with listeners. Remember to experiment, practice, and let your creativity guide you on your musical journey. The more you explore, the more you'll discover the beauty and complexity hidden within the seemingly simple framework of a minor scale.