Many of you might know this scale from the 80's widdle-fest which was "neo-classical" metal. This is Yngwie Malmsteen's favorite mode, as it is used extensively throughout classical music.
The formula for the harmonic minor contains the following intervals 1, 2, b3, 4, 5, b6, 7. So when we use the E minor scale the notes would be E, F#, G, A, B, C, D#. Here are a few examples to start with.
E--------------------------------------------------------------
B--------------------------------------------------------------
G----------------------5--8--9---------------------------------
D----------5--7--9-------------------------------------12--14--
A--7--9-----------------------------------12--14--15-----------
E---------------------------12--14--15-------------------------
E-----------------------------------12-14-15-17-19-20-23-24----
B-----------------------12--13--16-----------------------------
G-------11--12--14---------------------------------------------
D--14----------------------------------------------------------
A--------------------------------------------------------------
E--------------------------------------------------------------
With every mode try to pick out which combination of notes give it its unique sound. Having this information will help you achieve better harmony over the scales and primary chords.
The chords that can be used under this mode are E, Em, EmMaj7, and Emb6.
- Em uses the minor triad, 1 b3 5. So use the major scale to work out the chordal notes.
- EmMajor7 uses the minor triad with a major 7th so its 1, b3, 5, 7
- Emb6 uses the minor triad with a b6, so its 1, b3, 5, b6.
One tip about soloing over chords, try and emphasize the notes of the chords when you play the scale, it will give you a strong harmonic basis when you go on scale runs or throw in killer licks.
