Compare major and minor sounds at the keyboard, beginning with a three-note chord and one changed note.
Change one note, then listen
Play a major triad
Play C E G together or one note at a time. Keep the pulse and volume comfortable.
Lower the third
Change E to E-flat while keeping C and G. You have changed C major into C minor.
Compare in another key
Use the chord tool to find another major and minor pair. Listen for the same relationship with different starting notes.
Major and minor describe musical relationships, not guaranteed emotions. Tempo, register, rhythm, and context also affect how music feels. Start by hearing the changed third instead of relying only on “happy” and “sad.”