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Intervals

Definition

Intervals are the distances between two pitches in music, measured by counting the number of letter names and accidentals involved.

Analogy

Imagine intervals as steps on a staircase. Each step represents a different interval, such as a second, third, fourth, etc. Just like climbing stairs requires you to count each step, determining intervals involves counting letter names and accidentals.

Related terms

Perfect Fifth: A perfect fifth is an interval consisting of seven half steps or semitones.

Major Third: A major third is an interval consisting of four half steps or semitones.

Augmented Second: An augmented second is an interval consisting of three half steps or semitones.

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© 2024 Fiveable Inc. All rights reserved.

AP® and SAT® are trademarks registered by the College Board, which is not affiliated with, and does not endorse this website.