scale
Fretboard diagram
A minor scale — chords and intervals
The harmonized A minor scale yields a chord family rooted in emotional depth and narrative tension. Its natural minor chord pattern — minor-diminished-major-minor-minor-major-major — provides a rich palette for dramatic songwriting. The diatonic chords of A minor are Am7, Bm7b5, Cmaj7, Dm7, Em7, Fmaj7, G7. The i-iv-v progression creates classic minor-key melancholy, while borrowing the V major chord from harmonic minor adds a powerful resolution. The III-VII-i movement is a staple of rock and metal. Commonly used in Rock, Pop, Metal, Classical, R&B. Notable players include Metallica, Adele, Beethoven.
The A minor scale has the following degrees: 1 2 ♭3 4 5 ♭6 ♭7.
Intervals: W-H-W-W-H-W-W.
Diatonic chords: Am7, Bm7b5, Cmaj7, Dm7, Em7, Fmaj7, G7.
| Degrees | Chord |
|---|---|
| I | Am7 |
| ii | Bm7b5 |
| iii | Cmaj7 |
| IV | Dm7 |
| V | Em7 |
| vi | Fmaj7 |
| vii° | G7 |
Degree-by-Degree Analysis
The I chord (Am7) is the tonic — the gravitational center of the key. The ii chord (Bm7b5) is the minor subdominant, commonly used to approach the V chord. The iii chord (Cmaj7) functions as a substitute for the I or vi. The IV chord (Dm7) is the subdominant — it adds motion and moderate tension. The V chord (Em7) is the dominant — it creates the strongest tension that wants to resolve to the I. The vi chord (Fmaj7) is the relative minor — it brings emotional color and depth. The vii° chord (G7) is the diminished — the most tense, rarely used alone, usually leading to the I.
This page focuses on the harmonic content — the chords built from each degree of the A minor scale. For fretboard patterns and fingering guides, see the scale page.
Use the interactive harmonizer above to explore triads, seventh chords, and chord voicings for composing with the A minor scale on guitar.
minor is the 6th mode of the Major scale (Aeolian). View A Major scale
Related Scales
How to Use This Scale
Use over minor triads, m7, m9 chords. Works across the entire minor key. Avoid over dominant chords that want a leading tone.