The Romanian (minor) scale is actually the fourth mode of the harmonic minor scale named Dorian #11. It is spelled 1 (tonic) – 2 (major second) – b3 (minor third) – #4 (augmented fourth) – 5 (perfect fifth) – 6 (major sixth) – b7 (minor seventh). This scale has a particular sound due to the augmented fourth (#4), making it an important scale in Jewish music. Notice that it is sometimes named Ukrainian Dorian (minor) or Altered Dorian,

Comparison With The Dorian Mode

As shown in the diagrams, the Romanian minor scale can be seen as the Dorian mode with an augmented fourth (#4). Comparing scale to each other is a good way to learn them and hear them.

One Octave Shapes

These are “One Octave” Shapes will help you learn and practice the Romanian minor scale in a simple and efficient way.

Two Octave Shapes

Here is the Romanian minor scale in position with notes within the space of two octaves.

3 Notes Per String

Here below, the seven modes of the Romanian Minor Scale. In other words, the following seven shapes represent the scale starting on each step. This is a good method to practice it all over the guitar neck.