The three forms of the minor scale are:
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Natural Minor Scale: This scale is the most basic form of the minor scale and has the following interval pattern: whole step, half step, whole step, whole step, half step, whole step, whole step. In terms of scale degrees, it is: 1, 2, flat 3, 4, 5, flat 6, flat 7.
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Harmonic Minor Scale: This scale modifies the natural minor scale by raising the seventh degree, which creates a leading tone. Its interval pattern is: whole step, half step, whole step, whole step, half step, augmented second (or whole step plus half step), half step. The scale degrees are: 1, 2, flat 3, 4, 5, flat 6, 7.
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Melodic Minor Scale: This scale has two forms: ascending and descending. The ascending melodic minor is derived from the natural minor by raising both the sixth and seventh degrees. The interval pattern for the ascending form is: whole step, half step, whole step, whole step, whole step, whole step, half step. The descending form typically follows the natural minor, where the sixth and seventh degrees are lowered back down. The ascending scale degrees are: 1, 2, flat 3, 4, 5, 6, 7; and the descending degrees are: 1, 2, flat 3, 4, 5, flat 6, flat 7.
These three forms are fundamental to Western music, providing a rich variety of harmonic and melodic options for composition and performance.