C harmonic minor scale diatonic chords
C harmonic minor scale seventh chords
scale
Fretboard diagram
C harmonic minor scale — chords and intervals
Harmonizing the C harmonic minor scale produces a unique chord family with a dominant V chord in a minor context, enabling strong authentic cadences. The raised seventh degree creates dramatic chord colors not found in natural minor. The chords of C harmonic minor are CmMaj7, Dm7b5, Eb+maj7, Fm7, G7, Abmaj7, Bo7. The V-i resolution is the defining sound of classical minor-key music. The augmented III chord adds exotic flavor, while the diminished vii° provides intense leading-tone tension perfect for neo-classical and flamenco progressions. Commonly used in Metal, Classical, Flamenco, Film Scores, Neoclassical. Notable players include Yngwie Malmsteen, Ritchie Blackmore, Johann Sebastian Bach.
The C harmonic minor scale has the following degrees: 1 2 ♭3 4 5 ♭6 7.
Intervals: W-H-W-W-H-3H-H.
Diatonic chords: CmMaj7, Dm7b5, Eb+maj7, Fm7, G7, Abmaj7, Bo7.
| Degrees | Chord |
|---|---|
| I | CmMaj7 |
| ii | Dm7b5 |
| iii | Eb+maj7 |
| IV | Fm7 |
| V | G7 |
| vi | Abmaj7 |
| vii° | Bo7 |
Degree-by-Degree Analysis
The I chord (CmMaj7) is the tonic — the gravitational center of the key. The ii chord (Dm7b5) is the minor subdominant, commonly used to approach the V chord. The iii chord (Eb+maj7) functions as a substitute for the I or vi. The IV chord (Fm7) is the subdominant — it adds motion and moderate tension. The V chord (G7) is the dominant — it creates the strongest tension that wants to resolve to the I. The vi chord (Abmaj7) is the relative minor — it brings emotional color and depth. The vii° chord (Bo7) 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 C harmonic 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 C harmonic minor scale on guitar.
Related Scales
How to Use This Scale
Use over m(Maj7), m7, dim7 chords. Essential for creating V7 → i resolutions in minor keys. The raised 7th provides the leading tone that natural minor lacks.