[Harp-L] Minor Keyed Harps Required?

[Robert Coble <robertpcoble@xxxxxxxx>]

Everything "depends", but you can play a complete natural minor scale on the
major scale diatonic harps without bending. The relative minor for a given
major scale uses the same key signature and the same notes as the
corresponding major scale, except that the starting point of the natural
minor scale is the 6th scale degree note of the relative major scale.

For example, Am is the relative minor for C major. Both keys share the same
notes:

Scale degree:   1   2   3   4   5   6   7
C Major scale:  C   D   E   F   G   A   B
Am minor scale: A   B   C   D   E   F   G

The complete Am scale begins on hole 6 draw. If using the Circle of Fifths,
the relative natural minor for the key of the harp is available as 4th
position.

On the other hand, if you need a Dorian minor, it also is available without
bending notes, beginning on the second scale degree of the particular harp.
This corresponds to playing in 3rd position.

Scale degree:   1   2   3   4   5   6   7
C Major scale:  C   D   E   F   G   A   B
D Dorian scale: D   E   F   G   A   B   C

Pick your poison and go for it!

Good luck!
Crazy ('bout harp!) Bob
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