Aeolian
Introduction
The Aeolian mode is also known as the natural minor scale. It is a widely used mode, recognized for its melancholic and introspective sound.
Structure of the Aeolian Mode
The Aeolian mode is the sixth mode of the major scale.
Formula: 1, 2, ♭3, 4, 5, ♭6, ♭7
Intervals:
- Root
- Major 2nd
- Minor 3rd
- Perfect 4th
- Perfect 5th
- Minor 6th
- Minor 7th
Interval formula: W – H – W – W – H – W – W
Example:
A Aeolian Scale: A – B – C – D – E – F – G – A
Aeolian in Action
Iconic Examples:
- “Losing My Religion” by R.E.M. – A minor melancholic Aeolian vibe.
- “Stairway to Heaven” by Led Zeppelin – Minor sections draw from Aeolian.
- “Smells Like Teen Spirit” by Nirvana – Strong Aeolian undercurrent.
Chord Quality
Diatonic Triads in Aeolian Mode
| Degree | Chord Type | Example (A Aeolian) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| I | Minor | Am | A - C - E |
| II | Diminished | Bdim | B - D - F |
| III | Major | C | C - E - G |
| IV | Minor | Dm | D - F - A |
| V | Minor | Em | E - G - B |
| VI | Major | F | F - A - C |
| VII | Major | G | G - B - D |
Diatonic 7th Chords in Aeolian Mode
| Degree | Chord Type | Example (A Aeolian) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| I | Minor 7 | Am7 | A - C - E - G |
| II | Half-Dim | Bm7♭5 | B - D - F - A |
| III | Major 7 | Cmaj7 | C - E - G - B |
| IV | Minor 7 | Dm7 | D - F - A - C |
| V | Minor 7 | Em7 | E - G - B - D |
| VI | Major 7 | Fmaj7 | F - A - C - E |
| VII | Dominant 7 | G7 | G - B - D - F |
Common Progressions
- i-♭VI-♭VII-i: Am - F - G - Am
- i-iv-VII: Am - Dm - G
- i-iv-v: Am - Dm - Em
