Scales on the Mandolin

Say, for example, that we want to compose a new melody using the DG Mandolin Scales Android Application.

For this example, we are going to use the scale-to-progression-to-melody method of composition. It is a bottom-up approach.

Using this software, we choose the "Neapolitan Minor" scale, and transpose it into the key of A, as shown in the following figure:

The notes in this scale are:

Next, we sit down and work out which chords are compatible with this scale in this key.

First, lets map the degrees of the scale:

For the first degree (chords starting in A), we can see that A-C-E (Am) is in the scale, and it is a minor chord;

also A-C-E-G# (AmM7), A-D-F (Asus4), are on the scale.

For the second degree (chords starting in Bb), we can see that Bb-D-F is in the scale, a major chord.

For the third degree (chords starting in C), we can see that C-E-G# is in the scale, an augmented chord.

Continuing this way, we can deduce all of the chords compatible with this scale, as shown in the following abstract table:

The next step is to choose a chord progression for our composition.

Suppose we like the traditional I-IV-I-V-I progression. In A, the basic chords in this progression are: A-D-A-E-A.

Now, choosing from the compatible chords chart above, we can have the following alterations: Am - Dm - Am - E7-5 - Am.

Fmaj7, the chord of the VI degree may serve as a substitution for the tonic (Am).

These chords are all in the Neapolitan Minor scale, as shown below:

And finally, using this scale, we can compose a simple melody that fits these chords: