Naming Intervals

Lesson 3/65 | Study Time: 5 Min
Naming Intervals

Naming Intervals

Interval distances are measured in numbers. The common names used in describing intervals are: Unison, Second, Third, Fourth, Fifth, Sixth, Seventh and Octave. These names are determined by the number of note letter names between the two notes being measured, including the starting and finishing notes.

For example, when ascending, C to D is a 2nd, C to E is a 3rd, C to F is a 4th, C to G is a 5th, C to A is a 6th, C to B is a 7th and low C to high C is an octave. Because of the possibility of each note being sharp or flat, there are various types or categories of each interval.

An example of this would be C to Db (minor second), C to D, (major second) and C to D# (augmented second). Because each of these intervals contains the letters C and D, they are all described as 2nds. C to Eb would be described as a 3rd.

Peter Gelling

Peter Gelling

Product Designer
4.79
Profile

GDPR Cookie Settings

When you visit any of our websites, it may store or retrieve information on your browser, mostly in the form of cookies. This information might be about you, your preferences or your device and is mostly used to make the site work as you expect it to. The information does not usually directly identify you, but it can give you a more personalized web experience. Because we respect your right to privacy, you can choose not to allow some types of cookies. Click on the different category headings to find out more and manage your preferences. Please note, that blocking some types of cookies may impact your experience of the site and the services we are able to offer.