Three Note Per String: Natural Minor Scale

The Formula of the Scale

The Natural Minor scale, also known as the Aeolian mode, is a seven-note scale that provides a darker and more somber tone compared to the Major scale. The formula for the Natural Minor scale in terms of intervals is as follows:

• Root (R)
• Major 2nd (2)
• Minor 3rd (b3)
• Perfect 4th (4)
• Perfect 5th (5)
• Minor 6th (b6)
• Minor 7th (b7)

For the G Natural Minor scale, the notes are:

• G (R)
• A (2)
• Bb (b3)
• C (4)
• D (5)
• Eb (b6)
• F (b7)

These notes provide the framework for the G Natural Minor scale across the fretboard.

How to Play the Scale

Place your fingers as follows:

• E String:
  • Index finger on the 3rd fret (G)
  • Ring finger on the 5th fret (A)
  • Little finger on the 6th fret (Bb)
• A String:
  • Index finger on the 3rd fret (C)
  • Ring finger on the 5th fret (D)
  • Little finger on the 6th fret (Eb)
• D String:
  • Index finger on the 3rd fret (F)
  • Middle finger on the 5th fret (G)
  • Little finger on the 7th fret (A)
• G String:
  • Index finger on the 3rd fret (Bb)
  • Middle finger on the 5th fret (C)
  • Little finger on the 7th fret (D)
• B String:
  • Index finger on the 4th fret (Eb)
  • Middle finger on the 5th fret (F)
  • Ring finger on the 6th fret (G)

Scale Visualisation

Here is the tablature for the G Natural Minor scale in the three-notes-per-string format:

e|--------------------------------------|
B|----------------------4--5--6---------|
G|----------------3--5--7---------------|
D|-----------3--5--7--------------------|
A|------3--5--6-------------------------|
E|-3--5--6------------------------------|

By practicing this scale shape, you’ll not only enhance your finger dexterity but also improve your ability to navigate the fretboard using one of the most commonly used minor scales in music.