Scale Theory: Minor Scales
In order to invoke the Relative or Natural Minor of a scale, simply begin at the sixth degree and follow the above interval formula of tone, tone, semitone, {tone}, tone, tone, semitone. Therefore, the sixth degree (note) of a C Major scale will yield a Relative Minor of Am.
Of course, as with the major scales, the minor scales are divided into two tetrachords. As one might incidentally observe that starting on the beginning of the upper tetrachord or 5th degree, you affect the next minor scale around a pattern similar to the Circle of Fifths.
However, one should be careful to note this is only true for the first eight relative minors (A, E, B, F#, C#, G#, D#, A#). From there, the remaining seven can be found by beginning on the 4th degree (D, G, C, F, Bb, Eb, Ab).
To form a harmonic minor, simply Raise the seventh degree of a natural minor. Likewise, to yield a melodic minor, the seventh and sixth degrees are raised.
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