7. Minor Scales
Lowering Pitches
In order to derive a minor scale from a major scale, one must lower certain scale degrees by a semitone. Using the correct accidentals, lower each of the following pitches by one semitone without changing the position of the notehead on the staff.
Writing Parallel Scales
In this exercise, different major scales are paired with their parallel diatonic minor scale. Starting on the keynotes provided and using the whole-step/half-step patterns characteristic of all major and diatonic minor scales, notate each scale making sure to use the appropriate accidentals. Once you complete each pair, highlight the differences between the two scales by writing the appropriate scale degree number under each pitch that is unique to the the diatonic minor scale. An example is provided for you.
Completing Scales Around One Note
Each of the following exercises provides a single note and indicates its degree in a diatonic minor scale. Complete each scale by writing in the remaining notes. Then, notate the parallel major scale to the right.
Spelling Diatonic Minor Scales Using Step Size Pattern
Each of the exercises below presents the keynote of a different diatonic minor scale. Complete each scale by using all seven letter names and by following the whole-step/half-step pattern shared by all diatonic minor scales.
Minor Scale Error Detection
In each of the minor scales below, some of the necessary accidentals are incorrect or missing. Use the name of the scale and the whole-step/half-step pattern shared by all diatonic minor scales to help you identify the errors. Cross out any accidentals that are incorrect on the left-hand side. Then, re-write the scale on the right, adding in any accidentals that were previously missing.
Converting Major Melodies to Minor
The melodies in the exercises below are written using major scales. Re-notate each melody so that it uses the parallel diatonic minor scale instead.
Original:
Re-notated in parallel minor:
Original:
Re-notated in parallel minor:
