Skips (3rds)
Definition: A third is an interval equal to three scale degrees that is most often major or minor*:
Major Third (M3)
Equal to four half steps; the distance between G—B is a major third.
Minor Third (m3)
Equal to three half steps; G—B♭
* (By itself, “third” can refer to a major third – it’s common to omit the word ‘major’ when speaking of intervals, chords, and keys.)
The third note or chord in a musical scale. When reading or playing a scale, the third note will be the first clue as to whether that scale is major or minor. Compare the following G scales:
G Major: G - A - B - C - D - E - F♯
G Minor: G - A - B♭ - C - D - E♭ - F
In many chord types, the third is an important building block. For example, major and minor chords are built similarly, except for their thirds:
Root Note: G
Major Third: B
Perfect Fifth: D
Root Note: G
Minor Third: B♭
Perfect Fifth: D
Also Known As:
terza [maggiore / minore] (It)
tierce [majeure / mineure] (Fr)
Terz [grosse Terz / kleine Terz] (Ger)