Scales+&+Intervals



= SCALES =

=A scale is a series of 8 tones or pitches. There are two types of scales we will focus on in middle school: Major and Minor scales. One way to remember the difference between the two scales is: Major scales have a "happy" sound, and Minor scales have a "sad" sound! So, how does the pattern of a Major scale look on paper?=


 * PATTERN: W-W-H-W-W-W-H **


 * CHECK OUT THE PPT PRESENTATION ON SCALES: [[file:MAJOR SCALES.pptx]] **

Here are some scales that you will need to know by the end of 8th grade:

C Major

G Major

D Major

F Major

Intervals
An interval is the distance between two notes. Intervals are always counted from the lower note to the higher one, with the lower note being counted as one. Intervals come in different qualities and size. If the notes are sounded successively, it is a melodic interval. If sounded simultaneously, then it is a harmonic interval. The smallest interval used in Western music is the half step. A visual representation of a half step would be the distance between a consecutive white and black note on the piano. There are two exceptions to this rule, as two natural half steps occur between the notes E and F, and B and C. A whole step is the distance between two consecutive white or black keys. It is made up of two half steps.