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Lesson 5: Intervals

An interval is the distance between two notes. These notes can be played simultaneously (harmonic) or in succession (melodic), either ascending or descending.

^^ A perfect 5th interval and a perfect 4th interval in harmonic position ^^

The list of intervals:

In the picture above, "m" stands for minor, where the higher note in the interval is flat. A capital "M" is major and "P" is perfect (basically, also major). "va" stands for "ottava alta", which means the note is an octave above, as opposed to "vb" which is "ottava bassa" an octave lower, and a really crap beer.

This image doesn't show it, but a flat P5 (or sharp P4) is known as an augmented 4th, diminished 5th or tritone (a4 or d5).

If you're reading intervals melodically, the interval always starts from the interval that is lower.

You can see that the example above is a Perfect 5th because there are five spaces on the stave between the notes. In the G major scale, you can see this:

(G) A B C (D)

See how we count up to the interval from the bottom note - we would never count from the top interval note, otherwise we would end up with a Perfect 4th.

(D) E F# (G)

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Homework:

The following website is great for learning intervals, and studying music theory.

Here is a link to a place where you can practice intervals:
http://teoria.com/en/exercises/ie.php

Before you start, make sure the "tritone" button is highlighted. You can also choose to listen to harmonic intervals and and descending melodic intervals. It all depends on how you learn!

These are really difficult to learn, but most accomplished musicians still practice them for at least 15 minutes a week, and there are lots of apps to download so you can practice anywhere. Just spend a lot of time practicing for a few days. Later on we'll have a more advanced look at them.

Thanks for reading, remember to hit me up with any questions!