Tuning-specific scale diagram

C# Natural Minor (Aeolian) Scale in 7-String Drop A Tuning

C# Natural Minor (Aeolian) Scale in 7-String Drop A Tuning shows the same c# natural minor (aeolian) scale pitch classes across 7 strings tuned A E A D G B E. The seventh string extends the pattern below a six-string layout while keeping the upper strings familiar.

Scale notes: C#, D#, E, F#, G#, A, B
Formula: 1 2 b3 4 5 b6 b7
Semitones: 0 2 3 5 7 8 10
Parent scale: E major
Tuning: A E A D G B E
Strings: 7
Open pitch range: A1 to E4
24-fret range: A1 to E6

Open strings and root positions

5 of the 7 open strings belong to C# Natural Minor (Aeolian) Scale: string 7 A (b6), string 6 E (b3), string 5 A (b6), string 2 B (b7), and string 1 E (b3). None of those open-string tones is the C# root, so the root must be fretted on every string.

String 7Ab6

String 6Eb3

String 5Ab6

String 2Bb7

String 1Eb3

First root on each string

String 7Fret 4

String 6Fret 9

String 5Fret 4

String 4Fret 11

String 3Fret 6

String 2Fret 2

String 1Fret 9

Low-string pattern

On the lowest A string, the first-octave scale pattern falls at frets 0, 2, 4, 6, 7, 9, and 11, with the C# root at fret 4. On the highest E string, the first C# is at fret 9.

OpenAb6

Fret 2Bb7

Fret 4C#1

Fret 6D#2

Fret 7Eb3

Fret 9F#4

Fret 11G#5

Practice this tuning-specific layout

Play C# Natural Minor (Aeolian) Scale on the low A string at frets 0, 2, 4, 6, 7, 9, and 11, saying each note name and degree aloud.
Build a phrase that lets A on open string 7 ring, then connect it to the nearest C# root and two other scale tones.
Connect the C# root positions on strings 7 through 1 at frets 4, 9, 4, 11, 6, 2, and 9, adding the nearest scale tone between each pair of roots.