Relative Minor Keys
So far, everything has been discussed in terms of major keys. However, there is another common type of key called a minor key. Minor keys are derived from minor scales. There are various different kinds of minor scales, each based on a different pattern of tones and semitones. The type of minor scale which is used to determine key signatures for minor keys is called the natural minor scale.
For every major scale there is a relative minor scale which is based upon the 6th note of the major scale. This means that if you sing the C major scale starting and finishing on A (A B C D E F G A) instead of C, it becomes the A natural minor scale.
Therefore, these two scales contain exactly the same notes, but in a different order. Listen to the following example to hear the sound of the natural minor scale. Minor keys are often described as having a "sadder" sound than major keys. The chart following this example shows the relative minor of all twelve major keys.
Both the major and the relative minor share the same key signature, as shown here.
