Any minor key is called the relative of the major key having the same signature; therefore, the relative minor of C major is a[C] as they both have neither sharps nor flats.
Rule 5. The Relative Minor is found on the Sixth of the Major Scale.
Rule 6. The Relative Major is found on the Third of the Minor Scale.
Some writers have called the relative minor parallel minor, using relative and parallel synonymously. This is a usage to be regretted as it causes considerable confusion. By most writers, the parallel minor is treated as the scale commencing on the same key-note as the major and will thus be treated in this book, therefore:—
the relative minor of C is a;
the parallel minor of C is c.
The parallel minor scale has three more flats or three less sharps in its signature than the major scale. In other words, by lowering steps 3, 6 and 7 of the major scale one semi-tone, the signature of the parallel minor is obtained.
The notation in the treble clef of all the minor scales (harmonic and melodic) follows:—