There are a number of ways to create the Harmonic minor scale. In this lesson, we'll work from a derivative scenario (from a given key), then rename the root of the scale to create Natural minor, then alter (parallel) the Natural minor to create the Harmonic minor scale (by raising the 7th degree of the Natural).
Note: You can parallel against the Major (most common), or any other type of mode (scale).
First up, make sure you can play the C Major scale smoothly (leaving pick and fingers at next tone). You will want to memorize this scale (all naturals in first position).
C Major Scale (Relative Major of A Natural minor)
Scale Frame Key
What do all the dots & symbols on the scale frame mean?
A Natural (Relative) minor
Now we can take the C Major scale and rename A as the ROOT. Then this same scale becomes A Natural or Relative minor (aka Aeolian mode). It is C's relative minor.
The tone A is the 6th tone of the C scale. C is the 3rd tone in A minor.
A Harmonic minor
Now, let's alter or change the G in the A Natural minor to a G#. This creates a gap of 3 frets in the scale. This produces some interesting and exotic sounds. This scale gets a new name: A Harmonic minor.
Simply exchange a G# for the G. Try playing this scale over an Am to E Major chord progression (record it).
When you play A Harmonic minor over an A minor chord, the mode is Harmonic minor.
When you play the A Harmonic minor scale over an E chord, the mode is Spanish Gypsy (R-b2-3-4-5-b6-b7). Spanish Gypsy is also known as Phrygian Dominant, Phrygrian Major, Mixolydian Flat 9, and the Ahavoh Rabboh scale. Five names for the same thing.
