A series of seven pitches whose ascending form is the same as a major scale with a minor 3rd. The descending form is a natural minor scale with a minor 3rd, 6th, and 7th. This is the scale applied to all tonal music in minor keys, distinguishing it from modal music. The 6th and 7th scale degrees must be raised when they resolve upwards, necessitating accidentals.
Melodic minor scale
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