Half Step
Definition
A half step is the smallest interval between two adjacent notes in Western music. It is equivalent to moving from one key on a piano keyboard to the very next key, regardless of whether it's black or white.
Analogy
Think of a half step like taking a tiny baby step forward. It's the smallest possible movement you can make in music, just like how a baby step is the smallest possible movement you can make while walking.
Related terms
Whole Step: A whole step consists of two half steps combined. It's like taking two consecutive baby steps forward.
Chromatic Scale: The chromatic scale includes all twelve pitches within an octave, each separated by a half step. It's like playing all the keys on a piano, including both black and white keys.
Enharmonic Equivalent: Enharmonic equivalents are two different names for the same pitch. For example, C# (C sharp) and Db (D flat) are enharmonic equivalents because they sound exactly the same but have different names.
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