Today's topic: "What is a minor second?" In this video you will learn how to construct and identify a minor second 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 second (minor, major, diminished or augmented) is the interval between a natural and the second one above it. For example, the interval between tones C and D is a second, but the interval between E and F is as well.
Additionally, a minor second consists of 1 semitone and is abbreviated with m2.
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 D sharp to a F flat. Or B sharp to D flat. Which are both different intervals, but sound like a minor second.
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 second make sure that you count two naturals. And there is one semitone between the notes.
That's it, you can now use the minor second!
After watching the video, you can read about [what a minor second is](https://sonid.app/musictheory/interval/minor-second).
Play music with confidence. Discover tips, technical guides, and best practices in our monthly newsletter just for musicians.