C harmonic minor (C, D, E♭, F, G, A♭, B) has three flats in its key signature with a raised 7th (B) that creates the signature augmented 2nd between A♭ and B. This exotic interval gives C harmonic minor its neoclassical, Eastern European character. Bach, Vivaldi, and Yngwie Malmsteen all exploit this scale for dramatic effect.
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 C Harmonic Minor 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?
C harmonic minor (C, D, E♭, F, G, A♭, B) has three flats in its key signature with a raised 7th (B) that creates the signature augmented 2nd between A♭ and B. This exotic interval gives C harmonic minor its neoclassical, Eastern European character. Bach, Vivaldi, and Yngwie Malmsteen all exploit this scale for dramatic effect.
What notes are in the C Harmonic Minor?
The C Harmonic Minor 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 have?
The C Harmonic Minor 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?
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
C is at the 12 o'clock position. Related keys: G (dominant), F (subdominant), A (relative minor), D (supertonic), Bb (subtonic).