This question is linked to the Minor Key thread, but I think it's more specific:
When we think about major pentatonic patterns (and major scales ones) we use the degrees of the major scales (pentatonic; 1, 2, 3, 5 and 6. major scales: 1,2,3,4,5,6,7) . The problem comes with the minor scales (and minor modes): I think theoretically I know that a minor scale is 1, b3, 4, 5 and b7 but when I want to memorize a pattern I still think like a major scale ( ie the first degree 1 is the 6 to me as an aeolian mode).So it's quite confusing to me rethinking the minor scales as degrees of minor scales. I will appreciate any insights folks!
Ok, build on what you've got. You already know the major scale, and you already know the degrees. So build the minor scales in relation to the major - in other words, make tonic minor scales. Start with:
1-2-b3-4-5-6-7 (Ascending melodic minor)
Then add the others one by one...
1-2-b3-4-5-b6-7 (harmonic minor)
1-2-b3-4-5-6-b7 (Dorian mode)
1-2-b3-4-5-b6-b7 (Aeolian mode/natural minor/descending melodic minor)
1-b2-b3-4-5-b6-b7 (Phrygian mode)
1-2-b3-#4-5-b6-7 (Gypsy minor)
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Thanks again noteboat!! excellent post!
