The distance between two notes with consecutive names, with 1 semitone between them.
Real tracks where you can hear this interval and practice it with movable-do syllables.
Chords whose formulas include this interval from the root note.
Scales whose formulas include this interval.
Intervals with a comparable quality and character.
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You can hear the minor second directly at the start of the song, precisely on the phrase "It's been a". This characteristic half-tone interval gives the introduction a unique tension that immediately captures the listener's attention and is typical of the Beatles' musical innovation. The subtle use of this dissonant interval creates an atmosphere of restlessness and energy that perfectly matches the title and mood of the track.
At the start of the melody you can hear a minor second. At It's not a John sings the interval.
This beloved Anastasia song starts with a minor second at Dancing-Bears.
The first two tones, Isn't form a minor second. At 'nt-she you can here a descending minor second. This repeats three times in the verse.
The song starts with Don't-know, which is a minor second interval.
The Jaws Theme consists of two notes, who form a minor second. They are repeated throughout the theme.
Finally, another Jazz Standard, sung by the amazing Chet Baker. He sings a minor second at in-Tahiti, between the second and third tone of the verse.
This time you can't hear the interval in the melody. You can hear it in the iconic instrumental introdcution, which strats with a minor second.
Maybe the most iconic composition by Ludwig van Beethoven! This song starts with a minor second between E and D#.
This Jazz Standard starts with the minor second interval, at How-Sensitive. Enjoy this beautiful song with the wonderful guitarist Carlos Jobim.
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The minor second (m2) is one of the most tense intervals in tonal music. It spans 1 semitone and creates immediate friction, making it essential for expressive melodic motion and harmonic tension.
m2 runs from a note to the next letter with a half-step distance, such as E to F or B to C. It belongs to the major/minor interval family. Precise spelling matters because enharmonic alternatives can imply different harmonic functions.
Melodically, m2 drives strong directional pull in stepwise lines. Harmonically, close minor-second voicings create bite in clusters and suspensions. In tonal contexts, m2 often functions as a leading or resolving tension.
Practice m2 from many roots and in both directions, then identify it by ear in melodies and dense harmonies. Compare m2 with M2 to hear tight chromatic friction versus open whole-step movement. Strong m2 control improves intonation, phrasing, and tension handling.