An interval in music refers to the distance between two tones, measured by their difference in pitch.
Count the Number of Staff Positions: Start by counting the number of letter names (A, B, C, D, E, F, G) encompassed by the interval. Include both the starting note and the ending note.
Identify the Quality: After determining the number of positions, assess the quality of the interval by checking the number of semitones it contains. Here are the general guidelines for interval qualities:
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Remember that intervals are often abbreviated using the following shorthand:
For example:
Enharmonic intervals are a concept in music theory that refers to two different sets of notes that sound the same pitch but are written or named differently. In other words, these intervals have the same sonic distance but are represented by different note names or symbols due to differences in notation or key signatures.
For example: augmented 2nd and the minor 3th have the same sound.
Melodic intervals are heard sequentially, one note after the other, in a melody. They describe the distance between consecutive pitches within a melody.
Example: Moving from C to E creates a melodic interval of a major third.
Harmonic intervals are heard simultaneously, when two or more notes are played or sung together. They describe the distance between pitches heard at the same time.
Example: Playing the notes C and E together creates a harmonic interval of a major third.
Consonant intervals are intervals that are considered stable, harmonious, and pleasant to the ear. They have a sense of resolution and are generally more sonically pleasing. Consonant intervals tend to have simple ratios between their frequencies, resulting in a smooth and agreeable sound.
Common consonant intervals include perfect intervals, major/minor 3rds, major/minor 6ths. The perfect 4th is consontant or dissontant depending of the context. These intervals often form the basis of harmonies and chords in music.
Dissonant intervals are intervals that are characterized by a sense of tension, instability, and clash between the notes. They create a feeling of unrest and are less stable compared to consonant intervals. Dissonant intervals tend to have complex frequency ratios, resulting in a more complex and edgy sound.
Examples of dissonant intervals include major/minor 2nds, major/minor 7ths, augmented and diminished intervals. Dissonance often seeks resolution to consonance, which can create a sense of motion and direction in music.
The perception of consonance and dissonance can vary depending on cultural and historical contexts. Different musical styles and traditions might use these intervals in different ways. Composers and musicians often manipulate the balance between consonance and dissonance to evoke different emotions and create dynamic musical textures.
A tritone is a musical interval that spans three whole tones (or six half steps/semitones). It is often referred to as the "augmented fourth" (A4) or the "diminished fifth" (d5) interval. The tritone has a distinct and dissonant sound, making it one of the most recognizable and tension-filled intervals in music.
In terms of its structure, a tritone is located exactly halfway between an octave. It divides the octave into two equal parts, each spanning three whole tones. This symmetry gives the tritone its unique and somewhat unsettling quality.
The tritone is often used in music to create tension and a sense of harmonic instability. Due to its dissonant nature, it tends to resolve to more stable intervals, particularly the consonant intervals of a perfect fourth or a perfect fifth. This resolution provides a satisfying sense of musical closure and release.
Historically, the tritone was considered the "diabolus in musica" or "devil in music" due to its dissonant and unsettling sound. It was considered forbidden in certain musical contexts during the Middle Ages and Renaissance.
In modern music, the tritone is used for its expressive potential and to create dramatic effects. It can be found in various genres, from classical compositions to jazz and contemporary music.
A well-known example of a tritone is the interval between the first two notes of the "Maria" song from "West Side Story" by Leonard Bernstein: "Ma-ri." This interval captures the tension and longing expressed in the song's lyrics.
In summary, a tritone is an interval of three whole tones or six half steps, known for its dissonant and tense quality. It has played a significant role in shaping musical harmony and tension-resolution relationships throughout history.
In music theory, the inversion of intervals refers to changing the order of the notes within an interval while maintaining the same pitch distance. In other words, you take the lower note and move it up one or more octaves, or you take the higher note and move it down one or more octaves, so that the relationship between the pitches remains the same but their positions change.
Example: C-D and D-C; E-Bb and Bb-E.
Rules:
Intervals larger than an octave (P8), formed by adding an octave to a simple interval.
For example, a compound second is a ninth, a compound third is a tenth, and so on.
Recognizing intervals by ear is an essential skill for musicians. Here are steps you can take to develop your ability:
Remember, consistent practice and immersion in listening will improve your ability to recognize intervals by ear over time.
List of Reference Songs for Each Interval:
Each song is carefully selected to help you remember and recognize the distinct sound of each interval. Practice regularly and soon you'll be identifying intervals by ear like a pro!
Disclaimer: Song references are provided for educational purposes and may be subject to copyright restrictions.