Which scale is characterized by having a lowered 3, 6, and 7 compared to its major counterpart?

The natural minor scale is defined by its specific pattern of whole and half steps, differentiating it from its major counterpart. In the context of the natural minor scale, the third, sixth, and seventh scale degrees are indeed lowered compared to the major scale. For example, if you consider the A major scale (A, B, C#, D, E, F#, G#) and compare it with the A natural minor scale (A, B, C, D, E, F, G), you can see that the third degree (C# in major becomes C in minor), the sixth degree (F# becomes F), and the seventh degree (G# becomes G) are all lowered by a half step.

This lowering of specific degrees contributes to the unique sound and emotional quality associated with the natural minor scale. The distinct absence of raised notes in comparison to other minor types, such as the harmonic and melodic minor scales, reinforces its identity and tonal characteristics. The natural minor scale is used extensively in various music genres to convey a somber or melancholic feel, making it a fundamental component in the study of music theory and composition.