Major and Minor Scale Recognition
Learn to identify major and minor scales by their unique sound characteristics and emotional qualities.
Major vs. Minor Scales
The major and minor scales are the two most important scales in Western music. Learning to distinguish between them by ear is fundamental to ear training.
Major Scale
W-W-H-W-W-W-H (Whole-Whole-Half-Whole-Whole-Whole-Half)
Sound: Bright, happy, stable, uplifting. The "do-re-mi" scale.
Natural Minor Scale
W-H-W-W-H-W-W (Whole-Half-Whole-Whole-Half-Whole-Whole)
Sound: Darker, sadder, more melancholic than major.
Identifying Scales by Ear
The Third Degree
The most important difference is the third degree. In major scales, the third is a major 3rd (4 semitones). In minor scales, the third is a minor 3rd (3 semitones). This is what gives each scale its characteristic sound.
Emotional Quality
Major scales sound bright, happy, and stable. Minor scales sound darker, sadder, and more emotional. Use this emotional quality as a guide.
Listen for the Leading Tone
In major scales, the 7th degree (leading tone) is a major 7th, creating strong pull to the tonic. In natural minor, the 7th is a minor 7th, creating less tension.
Practice Exercises
Practice identifying major and minor scales. Listen for the emotional quality and the characteristic sound of each scale.
💡 Practice Tip: Practice multiple questions to build your skills! After answering each question, click "Next Question" to continue. Your score and accuracy will be tracked as you practice.
Recognition Tips
- Focus on the Third: The quality of the third degree is the key identifier. Major 3rd = major scale, minor 3rd = minor scale.
- Feel the Emotion: Major scales feel happy and bright. Minor scales feel sad and dark. Trust your emotional response.
- Compare Side by Side: Play a C major scale, then a C minor scale. Notice the difference in "color" and emotional quality.
- Listen to Real Music: Most pop songs are in major keys, while many ballads and emotional songs use minor keys. Practice identifying the key of songs you know.