Interval finder: notes, semitones and spelling
Build an interval from a note, or identify the interval between two written pitches.
Select a key to hear its pitch. Use Tab to reach keys and Enter or Space to play them.
Ready to play. Sound starts when you press Play.
Build and compare
Choose the starting note and the interval you want. The result gives the second note and the distance in semitones. Use C with a major third to get E; compare a minor third to get E-flat.
Count letters as well as semitones
C to F-sharp is an augmented fourth. C to G-flat is a diminished fifth. Both span six semitones in equal temperament, yet their letter distances differ. Keep the written endpoints when asking for an interval name.
| Start | End | Interval | Semitones |
|---|---|---|---|
| C | E | Major third | 4 |
| C | E♭ | Minor third | 3 |
| C | F♯ | Augmented fourth | 6 |
| C | G♭ | Diminished fifth | 6 |
Listen in two ways
Play the notes one after another to hear a melodic interval, then together to hear a harmonic interval where that playback option is offered. Keep the same register while comparing examples. A written note’s octave is part of the distance, not an optional decoration.
Sources and methods
- Enharmonic notes
- Augmented and diminished intervals
- ChordLilt product contract