A diminished note isn't explicitly defined in the reference provided, but the reference does define a diminished chord. We can infer some information about diminished intervals from this definition. While a "diminished note" is not a standard musical term, the concept is inherently linked to diminished intervals. The most common context for diminished intervals is within diminished chords. Therefore, a diminished note is a note that creates a diminished interval in relation to another note.
Understanding Diminished Chords and Intervals
A diminished chord is a triad with a specific structure:
- Root: The starting point of the chord.
- Minor Third: An interval of a minor third above the root.
- Diminished Fifth (or Flat Fifth): An interval of a diminished fifth (or flattened perfect fifth) above the root.
Diminished Fifth Explained
The key to understanding "diminished note" in this context lies in the diminished fifth.
| Interval | Description |
|---|---|
| Perfect Fifth | Naturally occurring fifth above the root. |
| Diminished Fifth | A perfect fifth that has been lowered by a half step. |
So, a diminished note in this context is the note that forms the diminished fifth interval.
Example: C Diminished Chord
Let's take C as the root:
- Root: C
- Minor Third: Eb (E flat)
- Diminished Fifth: Gb (G flat)
In this case, Gb is the "diminished note" relative to the root (C), because it creates the diminished fifth interval.
Other Diminished Intervals
It is also important to understand that other intervals can be diminished. For example, a minor second lowered by a half step becomes a diminished second. A perfect fourth lowered by a half step becomes a diminished fourth, and so on.
