What is the Difference Between Major and Minor Scales?

The difference between major and minor scales lies in their construction and the emotional impact they convey. Here are the key differences:

1. Construction: Major scales are built using a formula of half and whole steps, specifically: W, W, H, W, W, W, H. Minor scales, on the other hand, are built using a different formula: W, H, W, W, H, W, W. For example, the C major scale contains the notes C, D, E, F, G, A, B, and C, while the A minor scale contains the notes A, B, C, D, E, F, G, and A.
2. Major Third: A major scale always contains a major third note, whereas a minor scale never has a major third note in its construction. In a minor scale, the 3rd note that comprises the scale or chord will always be flattened (or lowered) by a half-step.
3. Relative Scales: A relative minor scale shares the same notes as a major scale but has a different starting point. For example, the A minor scale is the relative minor of the C major scale, as both scales share the same notes.
4. Emotional Impact: Major scales usually convey a bright, cheerful, or happy tone, while minor scales often convey a darker, more somber or serious tone. Chords from major keys typically have a dominant, complete sound, while chords from minor keys often sound more dissonant and interesting.

By understanding the construction and emotional impact of major and minor scales, you can create different moods and emotions in your music and more effectively play pieces in various keys.

Comparative Table: Major vs Minor Scales

The difference between major and minor scales lies in the pattern of intervals between the notes. Here is a table comparing the two types of scales:

In a major scale, there are all whole steps except for two half steps, which are found between the 3rd and 4th notes and between the 7th and 8th notes (when discussing scales, it is more common to say "degree" instead of "note"). On the other hand, a minor scale has a different pattern of intervals, with a half step between the 2nd and 3rd degrees, the 5th and 6th degrees, and the 7th and 8th degrees. The third note in a minor scale is one note lower or "flattened," which gives the minor scale its darker, sadder sound. In contrast, major-type scales and chords contain major 3rds, which contribute to their brighter, cheerier sound.