Writing a scale, up and down

Worked example: E harmonic minor

1. Write the letters first, E up to E, in semibreves.
2. Add the key signature: F sharp.
3. Raise the 7th as an accidental: D sharp.

Coming down

A scale coming down has the same notes in reverse order. Without a key signature, write each sharp or flat in front of its note. In a minor scale coming down, the 7th is still raised.

Remember

• Semibreves, one octave, letters first.
• Key signature, or each sharp or flat by its note.
• Coming down: the same notes in reverse; a minor 7th still raised.