Relative Minor Is the Sixth

Lesson script

The sixth note of every scale is the relative minor. In C, count 1–2–3–4–5–6: A. So A minor is the relative minor of C. Same key signature — no sharps or flats — but the music can feel more melancholy or mystic.

Play C major scale, then start on A and play A–B–C–D–E–F–G–A. Cynthia connects this world to songs like Greensleeves.

Also notice: C’s relative minor is Am; G’s is Em; F’s is Dm.

Done when: you can show C major home and A minor home on the same white keys.

Instrument paths

• Piano: C scale vs A minor scale on white keys.
• Strings: Drone A under a minor melody.
• Percussion: Heartbeat that slows for minor answers.

Learning modes

• Solo child: Child contrasts C-home vs A-home phrases.
• Child + parent: Parent drones C while child explores Am colors, then swap.
• Family: Family: major verse / minor reply.