Definition of Major and minor
In Western music, the adjectives major and minor may describe an interval, chord, scale, or key. A composition, movement, section, or phrase may also be referred to by its key, including whether that key is major or minor.
The words derive from Latin words meaning "large" and "small," and were originally applied to the intervals between notes, which may be larger or smaller depending on how many semitones (half-steps) they contain. Chords and scales are described as major or minor when they contain the corresponding intervals, usually major or minor thirds.
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Questions people ask
Real questions from the Stack Exchange community – follow a link to read the discussion.
- Key signature for writing in modes other than major and minor · Music SE
- How do you convert a major song to a minor and vice versa? · Music SE
- When were the terms "Major" and "Minor" applied to keys? · Music SE
- How many (major and minor) keys are there? Why? · Music SE
- When is a piece in A minor versus C major? · Music SE
- Why do Major keys contain minor chords? · Music SE
Frequently asked questions
What is Major and minor?
In Western music, the adjectives major and minor may describe an interval, chord, scale, or key. A composition, movement, section, or phrase may also be referred to by its key, including whether that key is major or minor.