Major and Minor Keys

Definition

Major and minor keys are the two most common tonalities in Western music. A major key has a bright and happy sound, while a minor key has a darker and sadder sound.

Analogy

Think of major keys as sunny days at the beach, where everything feels cheerful and upbeat. On the other hand, minor keys are like rainy days when you want to stay inside and listen to sad songs.

Related terms

Key Signature: A set of sharps or flats placed at the beginning of a staff to indicate the key of a piece.

Relative Keys: Major and minor keys that share the same key signature. For example, C major is the relative major of A minor.

Parallel Keys: Major and minor keys that have the same tonic note but different key signatures. For example, C major is parallel to C minor.