What is a Minor Chord?

A minor chord is a type of musical chord built from three notes: the root, a minor third, and a perfect fifth. These notes are arranged in a way that creates a darker and more emotional sound compared to a major chord. For example, an A minor chord consists of the notes A, C, and E, where A is the root, C is the minor third, and E is the perfect fifth.

The defining characteristic of a minor chord is the interval between the root and the third. In a minor chord, this interval is a minor third, which gives the chord its more somber or reflective tone. Because of this quality, minor chords are often associated with moods that feel sad, dramatic, or introspective.

Minor chords are widely used in many musical styles including classical, jazz, rock, pop, and film music. They are an important part of chord progressions and harmonic structures, often providing contrast with major chords. Together with major chords, minor chords form one of the fundamental elements of harmony in music.