What is a Musical Interval?
A musical interval is the distance in pitch between two notes. It is a fundamental concept in music theory, essential for understanding melody, harmony, and overall musical structure. Intervals are measured in half steps (semitones) and whole steps (tones).
Intervals can be classified in several ways:
- Quality: Intervals can be described as major, minor, perfect, augmented, or diminished, which represents the quality of the sound produced.
- Size: Intervals are also classified by their size, such as seconds, thirds, fourths, etc., indicating the number of letter names spanned.
- Function: Intervals have functional roles within harmony, affecting how chords are constructed and resolved.
For example, the interval between C and E is a major third, while the interval between C and E♭ is a minor third. Understanding intervals is crucial for composers and musicians, as they form the basis for scales, chords, and melodies.
In summary, a musical interval not only defines the relationship between two notes but also plays a vital role in the emotional and structural components of music.