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Major Key

Definition

A major key is a musical scale that is based on a specific pattern of whole and half steps, resulting in a bright and happy sound. It serves as the tonal center for a piece of music.

Analogy

Think of a major key as the sunny side of music. Just like how sunshine brings warmth and happiness, major keys bring brightness and cheerfulness to a song.

Related terms

Minor Key: A minor key is another type of musical scale that has a different pattern of whole and half steps, resulting in a darker and sadder sound.

Tonal Center: The tonal center refers to the main pitch or note around which a piece of music revolves. In major keys, this is usually the first note or chord.

Key Signature: The key signature is a set of sharps or flats placed at the beginning of each staff line to indicate which notes are altered throughout the piece in order to maintain the major key's specific pattern.



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© 2024 Fiveable Inc. All rights reserved.

AP® and SAT® are trademarks registered by the College Board, which is not affiliated with, and does not endorse this website.