Build the Harmonic Minor Scale with Key Signature

The way it is done in class: first write the key signature of the key, then the harmonic minor scale. The notes inherit the key signature, so you only mark the raised 7th, the leading tone, with a natural (or sharp), because it is not part of the key signature.

How to use the exercise: Step 1 (key signature): choose Sharp or Flat and click on the staff to place each accidental of the key signature in its order. Step 2 (scale): with the key signature in place, put in the notes of the scale. They inherit the key signature automatically; press ♮ / ♯ / ♭ only when a note needs an accidental of its own. Undo and Clear work in each step. The magnifier shows what you are about to place.

The leading tone is not in the key signature

The harmonic minor scale is the natural minor scale with the 7th raised to create a leading tone. That raise is not part of the key signature: it is written as an accidental on the note. So you first place the key signature of the minor key and then raise the 7th degree with a sharp or, if the key signature already lowered it, with a natural sign.

Sharp or natural, depending on the key signature

In A harmonic minor the 7th degree (G) is raised with a sharp (G♯), because the key signature does not alter it. In C harmonic minor the key signature includes B♭, so to raise the 7th (B) you use a natural sign (B♮). The letter name of the note never changes.

Key	Key signature	Scale
A harmonic minor	none	A B C D E F G♯ A
D harmonic minor	1♭ (B♭)	D E F G A B♭ C♯ D
C harmonic minor	3♭ (B♭ E♭ A♭)	C D E♭ F G A♭ B♮ C

Printable worksheet (PDF)

The same exercise on paper, for class: eight harmonic minor scales to write with a key signature: first the key signature, then the scale, with only the accidentals that depart from it. With a separate answer sheet, with the answers in red.

It goes from easier to harder: first key signatures with few accidentals in treble clef, then more accidentals and the bass clef.

Printable PDF worksheet for writing harmonic minor scales with a key signature — A4 sheet for writing harmonic minor scales with a key signature.

Download the worksheet (PDF A4) Answers

You may print and photocopy the worksheets freely for the classroom. There are also worksheets of this same type for identifying and writing, and in the scales index you can create custom worksheets, mixing whichever types you like.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is the raised 7th not in the key signature?

Because the key signature belongs to the natural minor scale. The leading tone is an accidental of the harmonic minor scale, so it is written note by note, not in the key signature.

When do I use a natural sign for the leading tone?

When the key signature already lowers that note. In C minor (B♭ in the key signature), raising the 7th (B) needs a natural sign: B♮.

Where is the augmented second?

Between the 6th degree (unaltered) and the raised 7th. In A harmonic minor, between F and G♯.

Does the note name change when I raise it?

No. It is still the 7th degree; it only goes up a half step, with a sharp or a natural sign.

Practice these scales with the online metronome and check your tuning with the online tuner. You can also try the version with the accidentals written note by note.