Toronto Music Theory Lessons: Building Intervals
2024-12-19 - Alvin
Hi there! I’m Alvin Ryze, a professional musician and music teacher with over seven years of experience teaching saxophone in Toronto, Ontario. I’m passionate about helping students become the best musicians they can be.
In today’s blog post, we’re diving into an essential topic for any musician: intervals.
What is an Interval?
An interval is the distance between two notes in music, measured by pitch. Intervals are a fundamental building block of music theory, helping us understand melodies, harmonies, and the overall structure of compositions. Let’s explore the different types of intervals and how they work.
Types of Intervals by Size
Intervals are named by counting each note, starting with the first note as "1":
- Unison (1st): The same note played twice (e.g., C to C).
- Second (2nd): Count two notes, starting on C (e.g., C to D).
- Third (3rd): Count three notes, starting on C (e.g., C to E).
- Fourth (4th): Count four notes, starting on C (e.g., C to F).
- Fifth (5th): Count five notes, starting on C (e.g., C to G).
- Sixth (6th): Count six notes, starting on C (e.g., C to A).
- Seventh (7th): Count seven notes, starting on C (e.g., C to B).
- Octave (8th): Count eight notes, starting on C (e.g., C to C one octave higher).
Types of Intervals by Quality
The quality of an interval tells us how it sounds and is based on the number of semitones it contains. Here are the five main types of interval quality:
- Perfect: These intervals have a stable, consonant sound and apply to unison, 4ths, 5ths, and octaves. For example, C to G is a perfect fifth.
- Major (M): These intervals are slightly larger than their minor counterparts and are found in 2nds, 3rds, 6ths, and 7ths within a major scale. For example, C to E is a major third.
- Minor (m): These intervals are one semitone smaller than major intervals and have a slightly darker sound. For example, C to E♭ is a minor third.
- Augmented (A): These intervals are one semitone larger than a perfect or major interval, giving them a sharp, tense sound. For example, C to F♯ is an augmented fourth.
- Diminished (d): These intervals are one semitone smaller than a perfect or minor interval, often sounding dissonant. For example, C to G♭ is a diminished fifth.
Harmonic vs. Melodic Intervals
- Harmonic Intervals: Two notes played simultaneously.
- Melodic Intervals: Two notes played in sequence.
How to Identify Intervals
- Count the number of steps (letter names) between the notes.
- Determine the quality by analyzing the number of semitones.
Why Are Intervals Important?
Intervals form the foundation of scales, chords, and melodies. Understanding them will enhance your ability to read music, compose, and improvise.
Now that you know the basics of intervals, try identifying them in your favorite pieces of music or practice them on your instrument. With consistent practice, you’ll develop an intuitive understanding of how intervals shape music. Happy practicing!