Minor Second
Definition & Properties
The minor second (half step) is the smallest interval in Western music. It creates sharp, biting dissonance harmonically and is the interval of the chromatic scale and leading tone resolution.
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Abbreviation | m2 |
| Semitones | 1 |
| Quality | Minor |
| Just Ratio | 16:15 |
| Cents from Equal | +11.73 |
| Harmonic Character | sharp dissonance |
Ear Training Reference
The Minor Second (m2) is commonly recognized by the ascending motion of: Jaws theme (ascending); chromatic half step.
Practice direction: ascending — sing from the lower note up by 1 semitone.
Note Pair Examples
| Note 1 | Note 2 | Interval | Semitones |
|---|---|---|---|
| C | C# | Minor Second | 1 |
| G | G# | Minor Second | 1 |
| D | D# | Minor Second | 1 |
| F | F# | Minor Second | 1 |
Intonation by Temperament
The Minor Second measures 16:15 in just intonation (+11.73 cents from equal temperament). This deviation affects ensemble tuning and instrument voicing.
| Temperament | C4 (Hz) | C#4 (Hz) |
|---|---|---|
| Equal Temperament | 261.626 | 277.183 |
| Pythagorean | 260.740 | 278.437 |
| Just Intonation | 261.626 | 279.067 |
Instrument Tuning Context
Intervals smaller than a perfect fifth (1 semitones) are most sensitive to tuning in ensemble playing. Wind and string players adjust embouchure and finger pressure to lock in pure ratios.
Chords & Scales Containing This Interval
The Minor Second is present in all diatonic contexts. See the Chord Reference for chord types that incorporate this interval.
Scales
These scales include the Minor Second as a structural interval: