Exploring the Melodic Minor Scale: Diatonic vs. Jazzy Perspectives
When discussing musical scales, the melodic minor scale often emerges as a point of curiosity and sometimes confusion. Is it a diatonic scale, or does it belong to the realm of jazz, where its usage transcends traditional definitions? This article delves into these questions, shedding light on the characteristics of the melodic minor scale and clarifying its role in both classical and jazz music.
Is the Melodic Minor Scale a Diatonic Scale?
The definition of a diatonic scale involves the following characteristics:
Each octave relationship is a factor of 2. Notes are considered identical when they are an octave or multiples of octaves apart. It is divided into 12 semitone intervals, with precise frequency ratios being a complex topic. Whole tone intervals consist of two semitones combined. A diatonic scale consists of 7 distinct notes, with five whole tone intervals and two semitones, ensuring a specific pattern.Given these criteria, the descending melodic minor scale aligns with the definition of a diatonic scale, as it has 7 distinct notes arranged in the required whole and semitone pattern. However, the ascending melodic minor scale does not meet these requirements because it has a flattened 3rd and a major 7th, creating a different interval pattern than the typical diatonic scale. Therefore, the ascending melodic minor scale is not considered diatonic.
The Ascending Melodic Minor Scale in Jazz
The melodic minor scale is not only a cornerstone in classical music but also a vital part of jazz theory. In jazz, the melodic minor scale is often referred to as the Jazz Melodic Minor. Its distinct characteristic is the lack of a minor 3rd, making it a major scale when ascending. This scale has transformed the way we harmonize and improvise over chords, particularly dominant seventh chords.
The primary use of the ascending melodic minor scale is to facilitate a smooth transition and resolution from the dominant triad to the tonic note and the mediant. This scale:
Enhances the natural progression by resolving the tritone interval in a dominant seventh chord. Creates a sense of movement and resolution when ascending to the tonic. Makes the dominant triad a major triad, offering a distinctive sound.Uses of the Melodic Major Chord
Although not explicitly a "melodic major" chord, the concept of harmonizing the ascending melodic minor scale can lead to the creation of a melodic major sound. This is particularly useful in jazz compositions. The melodic major sound is achieved by:
Using the ascend-ing melodic minor scale over a dominant seventh chord. Implying a resolution to the tonic triad or the submediant triad.These resolutions can result in two types of cadences:
Perfect Authentic Cadence to the tonic triad, creating a strong and satisfying ending. Deceptive or Interrupted Cadence to the submediant triad, leading to harmonic interest and tension release.For instance, in a minor key, using the submediant triad instead of the expected tonic minor triad introduces a new mood and can signal a shift to a new key, enriching the musical experience.
Conclusion
The melodic minor scale presents a fascinating blend of classical and jazz theory. While its descending form aligns with the diatonic scale, its ascending variant, often utilized in jazz, offers unique harmonic possibilities. Whether you are a classical or jazz musician, understanding the melodic minor scale provides a profound insight into creating tension and resolution in your music.