More on Intervals

We looked briefly at intervals a few posts ago and now we are going to go a little more in depth.

 Let's review a bit first:
What is an interval? = the distance between two tones. Therefore, C to D (1 to 2) is a 2nd, C to E (1 to 3) is a 3rd, etc. Now we are going to learn the difference between major and minor intervals.

We will begin with the interval of a 2nd. We know that two half steps make a 2nd (F to G). This is what is called a major 2nd. To make a major 2nd into a minor 2nd we simply go one half step (F to Gb).
So this is how to look at major and minor intervals:

Major 2nd = two half steps
Minor 2nd = one half step

Major 3rd = four half steps
Minor 3rd = three half steps

Major 6th = nine half steps
Minor 6th = eight half steps

Major 7th = eleven half steps
Minor 7th = ten half steps

Notice the intervals of a 4th, 5th, and 8th aren't there? That is because they are what is called a Perfect interval - they are neither major or minor. You cannot change them.

Perfect 4th
Perfect 5th
Perfect 8th (octave)

Now, in the future, when you see major, minor, or perfect intervals, you will understand the terms.

Thanks for reading. Hope you enjoyed this.