C Natural Minor Scale
Also known as: Aeolian Mode, Relative Minor
Sad, melancholic, and introspective. Creates a sense of longing and emotional depth.
The C Natural Minor Scale consists of the pitches C, D, D#, F, G, G#, A#. Its interval formula is W-H-W-W-H-W-W with relative steps 0-2-3-5-7-8-10. It is widely used in Rock, Pop, Metal music for its distinct sad, melancholic, and introspective. creates a sense of longing and emotional depth..
C Natural Minor Scale Notes
Notes: C - D - D# - F - G - G# - A# - C
Scale Formula & Intervals
Interval Pattern
W-H-W-W-H-W-W
W = Whole step (2 semitones), H = Half step (1 semitone)
Scale Degrees
1 - 2 - ♭3 - 4 - 5 - ♭6 - ♭7
Scale degrees relative to the root note
Semitones from Root
Famous Songs Using This Scale
Stairway to Heaven
Led Zeppelin
Losing My Religion
R.E.M.
Nothing Else Matters
Metallica
Practice Tips for C Natural Minor Scale
- ✓The relative minor of the major scale (starts on the 6th degree)
- ✓Key for expressing sadness and emotional depth
- ✓Use with i-iv-v chord progressions
- ✓A minor uses all white keys on piano
Common Genres
Practice This Scale
Use our interactive scale practice tool to hear and learn the C Natural Minor Scale.
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