The harmonic minor scale has a distance of 1½ tones between the 6th and 7th degrees. The raised 7th degree is the only difference between the harmonic minor and the natural minor. This scale is often described as having an "Eastern" sound.
This famous melody is derived from the notes of the harmonic minor scale. It also features the fermata or pause sign ? , which is used to indicate that a note or chord is held at the player’s own discretion.