The first mode of Harmonic Minor is simply known as the Harmonic Minor scale.

Scale formula

The formula for the Harmonic Minor scale is:

 1 - 2 - b3 - 4 - 5 - b6 - 7

You can think of this as either the Aeolian mode with a major 7th, or as the Ionian mode with a b3 and a b6. Which ever floats your boat.

Chords

• min(Maj)7
• Dom7b9

Usage

This scale sounds dark, exotic, slightly classical or neoclassical. The Harmonic Minor scale can be used over a min/maj7 chord or the Dom7b9 chord.

It is one of the most distinctive and expressive scales in Western music and is used extensively in classical, jazz, metal, and neoclassical styles due to its dramatic, exotic, and slightly tense sound.

The raised 7th (major 7 instead of the natural minor’s flat 7) creates a stronger leading tone to the tonic, making it sound more resolving and intense compared to the natural minor scale.

Harmonic Minor is often used over chords that include the minor-major 7, dominant 7♭9, or dominant V7 chords.

Alternative Uses of Harmonic Minor:

• Melodic Minor Inflections: Some players combine Melodic Minor with Harmonic Minor for smoother phrasing.
• Chromatic Passing Notes: Adding chromatic notes (like ♭5) can add jazz-like tension.
• Fusion of Classical & Jazz: Guitarists like Al Di Meola and Frank Gambale use harmonic minor scales in fusion settings.