In diatonic set theory a specific interval is the clockwise distance between pitch classes on the chromatic circle (interval class), in other words the number of half steps between notes. The largest specific interval is one less than the number of “chromatic” pitches. In twelve tone equal temperament the largest specific interval is 11.
In Western music theory, the most common naming scheme for intervals describes two properties of the interval: the quality (perfect, major, minor, augmented, diminished) and number (unison, second, third, etc.). Examples include the minor third or perfect fifth. These names describe not only the difference in semitones between the upper and lower notes, but also how the interval is spelled.
Understanding Specific Intervals
Specific Intervals and the Mandolin
Intervals articles in the Mandolin Theory series
Mandolin Theory – Inverting Intervals – Basic knowledge you must learn
Overview In music theory, the word inversion has several meanings. There are inverted chords, inverted melodies, inverted intervals, and [...]
Mandolin Theory – Writing Intervals – See how to avoid the common mistakes
In diatonic set theory a specific interval is the clockwise distance between pitch classes on the chromatic circle (interval class), [...]
Mandolin Theory – Specific Intervals
In diatonic set theory a specific interval is the clockwise distance between pitch classes on the chromatic circle (interval class), [...]
