1. Interval Movement:
Intervals are the distance between two pitches, and their movement refers to how they change over time. Intervals can move in three directions:
- Ascending (upward): The second note is higher than the first note.
- Descending (downward): The second note is lower than the first note.
- Same (staying in place): The two notes are the same pitch.
2. Interval Relationships:
Intervals are classified based on the number of half steps (semitones) between the notes. The main types of intervals are:
- Unison: 0 half steps (same pitch)
- Minor Second: 1 half step
- Major Second: 2 half steps
- Minor Third: 3 half steps
- Major Third: 4 half steps
- Perfect Fourth: 5 half steps
- Augmented Fourth/Diminished Fifth: 6 half steps
- Perfect Fifth: 7 half steps
- Minor Sixth: 8 half steps
- Major Sixth: 9 half steps
- Minor Seventh: 10 half steps
- Major Seventh: 11 half steps
- Octave: 12 half steps (same pitch one octave higher)
3. Chord Construction:
Chords are combinations of three or more notes played simultaneously. They are constructed by stacking intervals on top of each other. The most common types of chords include:
- Major Chords: Consists of a Major Third stacked on a Minor Third.
- Minor Chords: Consists of a Minor Third stacked on a Major Third.
- Augmented Chords: Consists of a Major Third stacked on an Augmented Second.
- Diminished Chords: Consists of a Minor Third stacked on a Diminished Second.
4. Chord Progressions:
Chord progressions are sequences of chords that create harmonic movement in a musical piece. Different chord progressions can convey different moods, enhance the melody, and provide a sense of direction in a composition. For example, the I - IV - V - I progression (in the key of C, this would be C - F - G - C) is commonly used in popular music and creates a sense of resolution.
Understanding the movement and relationships of intervals and chords allows musicians and composers to create diverse melodies, harmonies, and chord structures that express their musical ideas effectively.