Chords in C Harmonic Minor Scale

ExoticDramaticTense

The harmonic minor scale’s raised 7th degree creates the classic V–i cadence that defines minor-key songwriting from classical to metal. Its augmented 2nd interval gives diatonic chords an exotic, neoclassical flavor. Used extensively in flamenco, gypsy jazz, and shred guitar — think Yngwie Malmsteen or Django Reinhardt.

Transpose to any key, progressions & circle of fifths

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Formula

W-H-W-W-H-W+H-H

Semitones: 2-1-2-2-1-3-1

Key Signature

EbAb

2 flats

Explore

Harmonic Minor Scale in the glossary Key Explorer tool Browse all C chords Chord Flashcards Ear Training Metronome

Characteristic Sound

Raising the 7th degree of natural minor creates the signature augmented 2nd between the flat 6th and major 7th — an exotic interval that gives harmonic minor its Middle Eastern and neoclassical character. This raised 7th enables the strong V–i cadence that defines minor-key songwriting.

Key intervals:7th

Mode Family

Harmonic & Melodic Minor

Variants of the minor scale with raised degrees for distinct harmonic colors.

Harmonic Minor Scale
Melodic Minor Scale

Notes:

CDEbFGAbB

Scales with similar note sets — useful for exploring substitutions and modal interchange.

♭7 substitutionNatural Minor Scale (Aeolian)1 note differentMelodic Minor Scale 2 notes differentMajor Scale (Ionian)2 notes differentDorian Mode Shared characterPhrygian Mode

Chromatic Mediant Relationships

Chords a third away from the root — not diatonic to this scale. Common in film scoring and jazz.

M3 ↑

EE Em

m3 ↓

AA Am

Harmonic Minor Scale scale FAQ

What chords are in C Harmonic Minor Scale?

The diatonic chords in C Harmonic Minor Scale are: Cm, Ddim, Ebaug, Fm, G, Ab, Bdim. These are the chords built naturally from each degree of the scale.

What is the Harmonic Minor Scale?

The harmonic minor scale raises the 7th degree of the natural minor scale, creating a distinctive exotic sound. The augmented 2nd between the 6th and 7th degrees gives it a classical, Middle Eastern, and neoclassical flavor.

What notes are in the C Harmonic Minor Scale?

The C Harmonic Minor Scale contains the notes: C, D, Eb, F, G, Ab, B. This is a 7-note scale starting from C.

How many chords does the C Harmonic Minor Scale have?

The C Harmonic Minor Scale produces 7 diatonic chords, one built on each degree of the scale: Cm, Ddim, Ebaug, Fm, G, Ab, Bdim.

What is the formula for the Harmonic Minor Scale?

The Harmonic Minor Scale follows the interval formula: W-H-W-W-H-W+H-H (W = whole step, H = half step).