Chapter 2:Intervals
And take special note of those intervals that are enharmonically identical—such
as the augmented fourth and the diminished fifth. What you call that particular
interval depends on which direction you’re heading, and which notation is the
easiest to read in a given piece of music.
The Least You Need to Know
◆The smallest interval between any two notes is called a half step. Two half
steps equal one whole step.
◆A sharp raises the value of a note by a half step. A flat lowers the value of a
note by a half step.
◆The intervals between any two notes are described in terms of degree. For
example, the interval between the first and third notes is called a third.
◆In a major scale, seconds, thirds, sixths, and sevenths are called major
intervals. You can create a minor interval by flattening these notes.
◆In a major scale, fourths, fifths, and octaves are called perfect intervals.
When you flatten a perfect interval, you create a diminished interval;
when you sharpen a perfect interval, you create an augmented interval.Exercises
Exercise 2-1
Add sharps before each of these notes.
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Exercise 2-2
Add flats before each of these notes.
Exercise 2-3
Enter a new note an octave above each of the following notes.