Which scale starts on "la"?

The Aeolian scale, also known as the natural minor scale, is characterized by its starting note being "la." This scale follows a specific pattern of whole and half steps, which yields a sound that is commonly associated with minor tonalities. When you start from "la," you follow the natural scale (A-B-C-D-E-F-G-A), aligning perfectly with the intervals of the Aeolian mode.

In contrast, the other scales have different tonal centers and characteristics. The Locrian scale, for instance, starts on "ti" (the seventh scale degree), while the Dorian scale starts on "re" (the second degree). The Ionian scale, equivalent to the major scale, starts on "do" (the first degree). These differing starting points and intervals mean they will have distinct sounds and applications in music, but only the Aeolian scale specifically starts on "la."