Hungarian Minor Scale

The Hungarian minor scale is a seven-note scale that has a unique, exotic sound. It is characterized by its augmented second and raised fourth degree, and is often used in Hungarian, Eastern European, and gypsy music.

Structure of the Hungarian Minor Scale

The Hungarian minor scale follows the pattern of whole steps (W), half steps (H), and augmented seconds (A):


W - H - A - H - H - A - H

Example: A Hungarian Minor Scale

The A Hungarian minor scale consists of the following notes:


A - B - C - D# - E - F - G# - A

Sound and Character

The Hungarian minor scale has a unique, exotic sound due to its augmented second and raised fourth degree. It is often used to create a sense of mystery and drama in music.

Applications of the Hungarian Minor Scale

The Hungarian minor scale is used in various musical contexts, including:

  • Melody: Creating exotic and dramatic melodies.
  • Harmony: Adding tension and intensity to chord progressions.
  • Improvisation: Soloing with an exotic, Eastern European sound.

Chords Derived from the Hungarian Minor Scale

The Hungarian minor scale can be used to derive the following chords:

  • Minor chords (e.g., Am)
  • Major chords (e.g., B)
  • Augmented chords (e.g., C+)
  • Diminished chords (e.g., G#°)

Songs That Use the Hungarian Minor Scale

Here are some songs that use the Hungarian minor scale:

  • "Hungarian Dance No. 5" by Johannes Brahms
  • "Hungarian Rhapsody No. 2" by Franz Liszt
  • "Dark Eyes" (Traditional Russian folk song)
  • "Zigeunerweisen" by Pablo de Sarasate
  • "Csárdás" by Vittorio Monti
  • "Symphony of Destruction" by Megadeth

Practice Exercises

Here are some practice exercises to help you get familiar with the Hungarian minor scale:

  1. Play the A Hungarian minor scale on your instrument, ascending and descending.
  2. Write out the notes of the Hungarian minor scale in different keys and play them on your instrument.
  3. Practice improvising using the Hungarian minor scale to create exotic and dramatic sounds.
  4. Compose a short melody using the Hungarian minor scale and play it on your instrument.
  5. Analyze a piece of music that uses the Hungarian minor scale and identify the scale's role in the composition.
  6. Practice playing the chords derived from the Hungarian minor scale in different keys.
  7. Improvise a solo using the Hungarian minor scale over a backing track in an Eastern European or gypsy style.
  8. Transcribe a solo or melody that uses the Hungarian minor scale and play it on your instrument.
  9. Create a chord progression using chords derived from the Hungarian minor scale and play it on your instrument.
  10. Experiment with combining the Hungarian minor scale with other scales in your improvisation.

 

 

Check out some other Bands on Bandcamp.com. Crazy Fingers (Vancouver 1991), Flying Butt Pliers, and Hammy Ham Hands.

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