Relative scales

Introduce changes in the mood of the music you play with this ‘relative’ major and minor scale trick

We could fill the mag many times over on the subject of scales, but, rather than getting bogged down with too much info, we’re looking at just two: the major scale and the natural minor scale. These are vital scales to know because they outline the notes used in major and minor key songs – useful information whether you’re jamming a solo or crafting a chord progression. In fact, it’s possible for these scales to share the same notes – a scenario known as ‘relative’ major and minor scales. Read on as we look at this relationship and explore how you can make use of it in your own music.