Counting the distance
An interval is the distance between two notes. The smallest is the semitone (half step) - one key to the very next. Two semitones make a tone (whole step).
Intervals are named by how many letter names they span and by their quality: major, minor, perfect, augmented or diminished.
- Minor 3rd = 3 semitones, major 3rd = 4
- Perfect 4th = 5 semitones, perfect 5th = 7
- Octave = 12 semitones
Hear a third, then a fifth
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E
B
G
D
A
E
C to E is a major third; C to G is a perfect fifth.
Key takeaways
- • Semitone = 1 step, tone = 2 steps
- • Interval = number + quality
- • Fifths sound open, thirds colour the chord
Try it in the Toolbox
Test yourself
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C up to G is which interval?