Minor Sixth

Definition

A minor sixth is an interval that spans six diatonic scale degrees and is considered to be one half step smaller than a major sixth. This interval creates a distinctive sound often associated with tension or dissonance, which is crucial in musical contexts for creating movement or emotional depth. The minor sixth can also be found in various harmonic and melodic structures, influencing the overall character of a piece.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The minor sixth interval consists of eight half steps, giving it a distinct quality that is less consonant than the major sixth.
2. When inverted, a minor sixth becomes a major third, changing its character while maintaining the same pitches but altering their relationship.
3. In music composition, minor sixths can create tension that resolves nicely to consonant intervals, making them effective for emotional expression.
4. Common examples of minor sixths can be found in various musical genres, including classical and jazz, often used in melodies and harmonies.
5. A minor sixth can also function as a leading tone to create voice leading that directs harmony toward resolutions.

Review Questions

• How does the inversion of a minor sixth change its perception and musical function?
  • Inverting a minor sixth changes it into a major third. This inversion not only alters how we perceive the interval but also its role within the music. While a minor sixth tends to evoke tension and dissonance, the resulting major third is much more consonant and stable. This shift allows composers to create contrast within their harmonic progressions by using both intervals effectively.
• Discuss the significance of the minor sixth in relation to compound intervals in music composition.
  • The minor sixth can be integral to understanding compound intervals since compound intervals are built from smaller intervals like the minor sixth. When combined with other intervals, the minor sixth contributes to the overall texture and complexity of a piece. For example, when added to another interval that spans more than an octave, it enhances the emotional depth and harmonic richness of the composition.
• Evaluate how the use of minor sixths influences musical expression across different genres.
  • The minor sixth serves as a powerful tool for composers and musicians across various genres because of its inherent tension and potential for resolution. In classical music, it often creates dramatic moments that heighten emotional impact. In jazz, it can add complexity to improvisation and harmonies. This interval’s versatility allows it to evoke a wide range of feelings, making it an essential component in shaping musical narratives.

Related terms

Major Sixth: An interval that spans six diatonic scale degrees and is one whole step larger than a minor sixth, often producing a brighter, more consonant sound.

Interval Inversion:

The process of flipping an interval so that the lower note becomes the higher note and vice versa, affecting the quality and perception of the interval.

Compound Interval: An interval that spans more than an octave, combining multiple smaller intervals, which can include minor sixths as part of their structure.