key term - Augmented Intervals

Definition

Augmented intervals are musical intervals that are one half step larger than a perfect or major interval. This means that an augmented interval increases the distance between two pitches beyond their normal size, creating a unique sound that is often perceived as tense or unresolved. Understanding augmented intervals helps in analyzing harmonic and melodic structures in music, as they can influence the overall mood and direction of a piece.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. An augmented interval is formed by raising the top note of a perfect or major interval by one half step.
2. The augmented first (or unison) interval is unique because it sounds like the same pitch but is notated differently.
3. Augmented intervals are used frequently in jazz and contemporary music to create dissonance and tension that resolve later.
4. The augmented fourth interval has historical significance as it was once referred to as the 'tritone' and was avoided in earlier music due to its dissonant quality.
5. In terms of notation, an augmented interval can be identified by adding a '+' sign or using 'aug.' before the interval name.

Review Questions

• How do augmented intervals differ from perfect and major intervals in terms of size and function within music?
  • Augmented intervals differ from perfect and major intervals by being one half step larger than their respective sizes. For example, an augmented fourth is one half step larger than a perfect fourth. This increased size creates a more dissonant sound, which can add tension within a musical context. While perfect and major intervals often convey stability and consonance, augmented intervals are frequently used to create movement and drive in compositions.
• What role do augmented intervals play in creating tension within musical compositions, particularly in genres like jazz?
  • Augmented intervals play a critical role in establishing tension within musical compositions by introducing dissonance that seeks resolution. In jazz, musicians often use augmented intervals to add complexity to melodies and harmonies, enhancing emotional expression. The unresolved quality of these intervals can create a sense of anticipation for the listener, making the eventual resolution more satisfying when it occurs.
• Analyze how the historical perception of the tritone relates to the use of augmented intervals in contemporary music.
  • Historically, the tritone was viewed with caution due to its dissonant nature, often associated with augmented fourths. This perception led composers to avoid its use in earlier musical traditions. However, in contemporary music, including jazz and modern classical styles, composers have embraced augmented intervals as tools for creating expressive tension and unique harmonic progressions. This shift illustrates how musical norms evolve over time, allowing for greater experimentation and creativity in composition.

Related terms

Perfect Intervals:

Intervals that are considered stable and consonant, including the unison, fourth, fifth, and octave, which remain unchanged when augmented.

Diminished Intervals: Intervals that are one half step smaller than a perfect or minor interval, representing the opposite of augmented intervals.

Major Intervals:

Intervals that are larger than their minor counterparts by one whole step, and can also be augmented to create heightened tension.