Differences Between Major and Minor Chords

1. What Are They?

   • Major Chord: This is made up of three notes: the root note, a cheerful note called the major third, and a strong note called the perfect fifth.
   • Minor Chord: This is also made up of three notes: the root note, a sadder note known as the minor third, and the same strong note, the perfect fifth.

2. How They Are Built:

   • Major Chord: To get from the root to the major third, you move up 4 half steps (or semitones). From the root to the perfect fifth, you move up 7 half steps.
   • Minor Chord: To get from the root to the minor third, you only move up 3 half steps. The perfect fifth still stays at 7 half steps away.

3. How They Sound:

   • Major Chord: These chords often sound bright, happy, and uplifting.
   • Minor Chord: In contrast, these chords usually sound darker, sadder, or more thoughtful.

4. Examples:

   • C Major Chord: This chord is made up of C (the root), E (the major third), and G (the perfect fifth).
   • A Minor Chord: This chord includes A (the root), C (the minor third), and E (the perfect fifth).

5. Common Patterns:

   • Major Progressions: A common pattern in major songs is I-IV-V, like C-F-G in C Major.
   • Minor Progressions: A typical pattern in minor songs is i-iv-V, like Am-Dm-E in A Minor.

6. Where You Hear Them:

   • Major chords are often found in pop music and many classical pieces.
   • Minor chords are frequently heard in blues and rock, adding a deeper emotion.

Knowing the differences between major and minor chords can help you understand music better and play it more effectively. This knowledge allows you to create a beautiful mix of sounds in your music!