minor key

American  

noun

Music.

1. a key or mode based on a minor scale.

2. a less jubilant or more restrained mood, atmosphere, or quality.

   The conversation shifted to a minor key with news of the defeat.

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minor key British  

noun

1. music a key based on notes taken from a corresponding minor scale

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Etymology

Origin of minor key

First recorded in 1810–20

Example Sentences

See Examples For:

minor key

Its reflective, minor key melancholy was embraced by fans after the band went on hiatus in 2016.

From BBC ● Oct. 25, 2024

“Atlanta” sets a tone that is a little melancholic but not pessimistic; it’s aspirational in a minor key.

From Los Angeles Times ● Aug. 24, 2022

This single-sitting listen is a minor key masterpiece.

From Seattle Times ● Aug. 9, 2022

The overture of “Madama Butterfly” is very fast and energetic, in a minor key, that sounds very Western.

From New York Times ● Aug. 5, 2022

Figure 4.44: The major key for each key signature is shown as a capital letter; the minor key as a small letter.

From "Understanding Basic Music Theory" by Catherine Schmidt-Jones and Russel Jones