Minor 2nd vs Major 2nd

The minor second and major second are the smallest common intervals in Western music. Telling them apart is the first step to transcribing melodies by ear.

The Half Step vs Whole Step

A minor second (m2) is a distance of one half-step (e.g., C to C#). It is the smallest interval on a piano or guitar.

A major second (M2) is a distance of two half-steps, or one whole step (e.g., C to D).

How do they sound?

The minor second is incredibly dissonant and tense. Played harmonically, it sounds like the notes are clashing violently. Played melodically, it is the famous "Jaws" theme.

The major second is also dissonant, but much softer. It sounds like the opening two notes of "Happy Birthday".

Practice tips

Because these intervals are so close in size, beginners often confuse them. Set your trainer to ONLY these two intervals, and play them in Harmonic mode. The sheer crunch and extreme tension of the minor 2nd will quickly become obvious compared to the milder major 2nd.

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