Learn music theory with Sonid 16: Minor Third

Today's topic: "What is a minor third?" In this video you will learn how to construct and identify a minor third interval in 30 seconds. Including some examples and common mistakes.

An interval is the distance between two notes.

To identify an interval you must:

1 (number) - count the amount of naturals

2 (quality) - count the semitone steps

In music theory, a third (minor, major, diminished or augmented) is the interval between a natural and the third one above it. For example, the interval between tones C and E is a third, but the interval between E and G is as well.

Additionally, a minor third consists of 3 semitones and is abbreviated with m3.

Common mistakes are often made when the notes of an interval use different naturals, but musically sound the same. An example of this would be a C sharp to a F. Or E sharp to A flat. Which are both different intervals, but sound like a minor third.

This may sound a little confusing at first, and it probably is. But when advancing in music theory it is an essential skill to understand. With it, you will be able to create chords, scales and progressions.

So, to correctly construct or identify a minor third make sure that you count three naturals. And there are three semitones between the notes.

That's it, you can now use the minor third!

After watching the video, you can read about [what a minor third is](https://sonid.app/musictheory/interval/minor-third).