Interval Size and Quality
Benjamin Wright
6 min read
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Study Guide Overview
This AP Music Theory study guide covers intervals, including their definition as the distance between two notes played harmonically or melodically. It details how to name intervals based on size and quality (major, minor, perfect, augmented, diminished). The guide also explains tritone, unison, and octave, provides shorthand notation, and discusses interval inversion. Finally, it offers tips for singing and recognizing intervals and touches on consonance and dissonance.
#AP Music Theory: Intervals - The Ultimate Study Guide 🎶
Hey there, future music maestro! Let's get those intervals down pat. This guide is designed to be your go-to resource, especially the night before the exam. We'll make sure you're not just memorizing, but truly understanding intervals. Let's dive in!
#What are Intervals?
An interval is simply the distance in pitch between two notes. Think of it as the musical measuring stick between any two sounds. Intervals are the building blocks of melodies, chords, and harmonies. They can be:
- Harmonic: Notes played simultaneously. 🤝
- Melodic: Notes played one after the other. ➡️
Understanding intervals is crucial for both melodic dictation and sight-singing on the AP exam. It's the foundation of everything else!
#Naming Intervals: Size and Quality
Intervals have two key components in their names:
- Size: The numerical distance between notes (2nd, 3rd, 4th, 5th, 6th, 7th, 8ve). Count the lines and spaces between the notes, including the starting and ending notes. For example, C to E is a 3rd (C-D-E).
- Quality: The specific type of interval (major, minor, perfect, augmented, diminished).
#Interval Types:
- Major (M): Found in a major scale. Think of the C major scale for reference: C-D (M2...
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