Interval

Definition

An interval is the distance between two pitches, defined by the number of scale degrees that separate them. Intervals are fundamental in music theory as they form the building blocks of harmony and melody, influencing the emotional character of a piece. Understanding intervals is crucial for recognizing and constructing chords, particularly in the context of inversions and figured bass, where the arrangement of intervals determines the overall sound and function of the harmony.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Intervals can be classified as major, minor, perfect, diminished, or augmented, each affecting the sound and emotion conveyed by the music.
2. The smallest interval in Western music is a minor second, while larger intervals like octaves can span eight scale degrees.
3. Inversions change the bass note of a chord but do not alter its intervals; thus, an interval retains its quality regardless of position.
4. Figured bass notation helps performers understand which intervals to play above the given bass note, providing flexibility in harmonic realization.
5. Intervals are critical for identifying chord qualities; for example, a major chord consists of a major third and a perfect fifth interval.

Review Questions

• How does understanding intervals enhance one's ability to recognize and construct chords?
  • Understanding intervals allows musicians to identify the specific distances between pitches that make up chords. By knowing whether an interval is major, minor, or diminished, one can determine the quality of the chord being formed. This knowledge is essential when constructing chords because it guides musicians in selecting the correct notes and arranging them appropriately for various harmonic contexts.
• Discuss how inversions impact the interpretation of intervals within a chord.
  • Inversions impact the arrangement of notes within a chord while maintaining the same intervals. For example, when a chord is inverted, the lowest note changes but the intervals between notes remain consistent. This shift can alter the chord's function within a progression and its emotional effect, giving musicians different ways to express similar harmonies through varied bass lines.
• Evaluate how figured bass notation utilizes intervals to guide performers in realizing chords from a given bass line.
  • Figured bass notation is an essential tool that conveys specific intervals above a bass note for performers to interpret harmonically. By indicating which intervals should be played, it allows for flexibility and creativity in realization while maintaining proper harmonic structure. This method emphasizes the importance of intervals since performers must understand their relationships to construct appropriate chords that support both melodic and harmonic lines effectively.

Related terms

Chord: A chord is a combination of three or more pitches played simultaneously, creating harmony.

Figured Bass: A musical notation system that indicates intervals above a bass note, guiding performers on how to realize chords.

Inversion:

An inversion refers to a rearrangement of the notes in a chord so that different notes serve as the lowest pitch.