whole step
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
Noun: A whole step is a musical interval equal to two semitones. It is the distance between two notes that have one note in between them on a standard musical scale, such as from C to D or from E to F#.
Usage
The term "whole step" is used to describe the specific size of an interval in music theory and practice. * In a major scale, the pattern of intervals is: whole step, whole step, half step, whole step, whole step, whole step, half step. * To raise the pitch of a note by a whole step, you can add two sharps or use a double sharp.
Examples
- The interval between the first and second notes of a major scale is a whole step.
- On a piano, moving from a white key to the next white key, skipping one black key in between, usually represents a whole step (e.g., C to D).
- The guitarist tuned the string down a whole step to achieve a different sound.
Advanced Usage
- Whole-tone scale: A scale composed entirely of whole step intervals. This creates a distinct, dreamlike sound often used in impressionist music.
- In chord construction, the root and the third of a major chord are separated by two whole steps (or four semitones).
Variants and Related Words
- Whole tone: A direct synonym for "whole step." The terms are used interchangeably.
- Semitone/Half step: The smallest standard interval in Western music, equal to half of a whole step.
- Interval: The general term for the difference in pitch between two notes.
- Major second: Another technical synonym for a whole step interval.
Synonyms
- Whole tone
- Major second (in diatonic contexts)
Antonyms
- Half step
- Semitone
- Minor second
Noun
- a musical interval of two semitones