Intervals in Sequences
Once you have a basic understanding of how intervals work, it is a good idea to practice playing scales in interval sequences. The following examples demonstrate intervals played through various major scales.
Because of the pattern of tones and semitones within the major scale, you will find that various types of intervals occur rather than all being the one type. E.g. the exercise below shows the C major scale played ascending and descending in 2nds. All of the intervals are 2nds but some of them are major 2nds (e.g. C to D and D to E) and some are minor 2nds (e.g. E to F and B to C).
Following on from 2nds within a major scale, here is the F major scale played in 3rds. Once again, some are major and some are minor.
This example shows the A major scale played in 4ths. All of the intervals here are perfect 4ths except for D to G# which is an augmented 4th.
Here is the Bb major scale played in 5ths. All of the intervals are perfect 5ths except for A to Eb which is a diminished 5th.
This one demonstrates the G major scale played in 6ths. Again, some are major and some are minor. As the intervals get larger, these examples will probably become more difficult to play. Take them slowly at first but stick with it, as a good knowledge of intervals is essential for all musicians, especially players of transposing instruments such as the saxophone.
To finish off the intervals within an octave, this example shows the A major scale played in 7ths. As with previous interval studies you will find that some of the 7ths here are major and some are minor.
