

The funny thing is, relative major and minor scales never start on the same note! C major, for example, actually isn’t related to C minor. When a major and minor scale share a key signature, they’re called relatives. However, every key signature actually goes with one major and one minor scale. Like major scales, every minor scale has a unique key signature – a set of sharps or flats that belong only to that minor scale. Simply lower each of these notes by a half step, and voila, you have a minor scale! You might notice that not only is the half/whole step pattern different, minor scales also have their own solfege! This is the other trick to minor scales: You can change any major scale into a minor scale by changing notes 3, 6, and 7 – MI, LA, and TI. Minor Scale Solfege: Transforming a Major Scale into a Minor Scale Here’s what a minor scale looks like in solfege: ME, LE, and TE are pronounced “may,” “lay,” and “tay,” respectively. Here’s the pattern for every major scale: Major and minor scales also follow different patterns of half steps and whole steps. Most people find that major scales have a happy, uplifting feeling, whereas minor scales often seem sad, spooky, or stormy. The most obvious difference between major and minor scales is how they sound. If you want to dive deeper and learn more about the theory behind minor scales, keep reading! Major vs. Then, download the free Minor Scale Fingering Guides for each type of minor scale to use as a reference. Hoffman demonstrates each 2-octave minor scale. If you just need a quick guide or refresher to playing minor scales on piano, watch the video below where Mr. Most music is written either in a major or minor key, so knowing the scales is crucial! Minor scales are a vital part of piano technique, along with major scales, arpeggios, and chords. What are the minor scales on the piano? What’s the difference between major and minor scales? Why are there different types of minor scales, and how do you play them? Learn all about minor scales on piano, including how minor scales are made, the three types, and how to play them.
