How to Build the Aeolian Mode from Major Scale Intervals

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The Aeolian mode, also known as the natural minor scale, is an essential musical mode used in various genres. Understanding how to build it from the major scale involves a simple process of altering specific intervals.

Understanding the Major Scale

The major scale is a foundational musical scale consisting of seven notes plus the octave. Its pattern of intervals is: whole, whole, half, whole, whole, whole, half.

For example, the C major scale includes the notes: C, D, E, F, G, A, B, C.

Intervals of the Aeolian Mode

The Aeolian mode is built by starting on the sixth degree of the major scale. Its interval pattern is: whole, half, whole, whole, half, whole, whole.

Steps to Build the Aeolian Mode

  • Identify the major scale you want to use as a reference.
  • Find the sixth note of this major scale.
  • Begin the mode on this sixth note.
  • Use the interval pattern of the Aeolian mode to select subsequent notes.

Example: Building A Aeolian from C Major

Using the C major scale (C, D, E, F, G, A, B, C), the sixth note is A. Starting on A, the Aeolian mode includes the notes:

  • A
  • B
  • C
  • D
  • E
  • F
  • G
  • A

This gives the A Aeolian scale: A, B, C, D, E, F, G, A.

Summary of Steps

  • Start with a major scale.
  • Locate the sixth degree of the scale.
  • Construct the mode beginning on this note.
  • Follow the Aeolian interval pattern to select notes.

By mastering this process, you can build the Aeolian mode from any major scale, enriching your musical understanding and improvisation skills.