A harmonic minor (A, B, C, D, E, F, G♯) has no flats in its key signature and its raised 7th (G♯) creates the exotic augmented 2nd between F and G♯. It is one of the most common harmonic minor keys, used extensively in classical music and neoclassical metal. Yngwie Malmsteen's "Black Star" showcases A harmonic minor's dramatic character.
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.
The diatonic chords in A Harmonic Minor are: Am, Bdim, Caug, Dm, E, F, G#dim. These are the chords built naturally from each degree of the scale.
What is the Harmonic Minor?
A harmonic minor (A, B, C, D, E, F, G♯) has no flats in its key signature and its raised 7th (G♯) creates the exotic augmented 2nd between F and G♯. It is one of the most common harmonic minor keys, used extensively in classical music and neoclassical metal. Yngwie Malmsteen's "Black Star" showcases A harmonic minor's dramatic character.
What notes are in the A Harmonic Minor?
The A Harmonic Minor contains the notes: A, B, C, D, E, F, G#. This is a 7-note scale starting from A.
How many chords does the A Harmonic Minor have?
The A Harmonic Minor produces 7 diatonic chords, one built on each degree of the scale: Am, Bdim, Caug, Dm, E, F, G#dim.
What is the formula for the Harmonic Minor?
The Harmonic Minor follows the interval formula: W-H-W-W-H-W+H-H (W = whole step, H = half step).
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Position in circle of fifths
A is at the 3 o'clock position. Related keys: E (dominant), D (subdominant), F# (relative minor), B (supertonic), G (subtonic).