An absolute major/minor key switch keeps the root note and shifts Camelot number by ±3

Unlike the relative major/minor switch (same Camelot number, different letter), an absolute major/minor switch moves from a key to its parallel major or minor — for example, F major to F minor. These keys share the same root note but have different notes overall, producing a more dramatic mood shift. The Camelot formula: if currently in a major key (B), subtract 3 from the number to find the parallel minor (A); if in a minor key (A), add 3 to find the parallel major (B). Example: 7B (F major) → 4A (F minor); 10A → 1B. This is ‘out of the box’ mixing — harmonically riskier but creating stronger emotional contrast than a relative switch.

Examples

Mixing from 7B (F major) to 4A (F minor) keeps the root note F but shifts the mode, creating a darker emotional landing. Use in short, quick transitions to avoid harmonic clashes.

Assessment

Calculate the Camelot target for an absolute minor switch from a track at 9B, and explain what is shared between the source and target keys despite the different Camelot numbers.