Scales reference
Aeolian Mode
Aeolian is the sixth mode of the major scale. It shares the natural minor scale's interval structure while describing that structure through its modal role.
Developing reference
Overview
Aeolian and natural minor contain the same interval pattern. The natural-minor reference explains the scale identity and its place in minor tonality; the Aeolian reference explains its position and contrasts within the seven-mode family.
The separate concepts preserve useful context without reproducing the complete natural-minor article.
Construction
Aeolian begins on the sixth degree of its relative parent major scale. In parallel comparison, its lowered third, sixth, and seventh distinguish it from Ionian.
Characteristics
The minor third establishes minor quality, while the lowered sixth distinguishes Aeolian from Dorian. Its lowered seventh does not create the leading-tone motion found in harmonic minor.
Applications
Aeolian is useful for comparing relative modes, recognising minor-centred modal harmony, and understanding how natural minor relates to the broader major-scale mode system.