Identify minor tonality through its scale degrees and tonic relationships rather than relying on a vague description of mood.
Calling a passage minor because it sounds sad does not identify the notes that create the tonality. Your goal for this lesson is clear: Can you point to the third and leading tone that distinguish the minor pattern you are playing?
Relative major and minor
C major and A minor use the same key signature but organize their notes around different tonal centers. The home note changes how the same collection feels.
Before playing the illustration for “Relative major and minor” (A3, B3, C4, D4, E4), state the active key and the letter changed by its signature or accidental. Point to every occurrence of that letter first, then read the remaining notes with the ordinary staff routine.
Three useful minor forms
Natural minor gives the basic collection, harmonic minor raises scale degree seven to strengthen the dominant, and melodic minor smooths the ascending line by also raising scale degree six.
Minor Keys at the keyboard
Now take the idea to the keyboard. Play A natural minor, then raise G to play A harmonic minor and compare the final approach to A.
- 1Play A-B-C to establish the minor third.
- 2Play F-G-A, then F-G-sharp-A.
- 3Name which altered note strengthens the pull toward tonic.
Minor Keys check
Calling a passage minor because it sounds sad does not identify the notes that create the tonality.
Can you point to the third and leading tone that distinguish the minor pattern you are playing?