Fifth interval

Definition

A fifth interval is a musical distance between two notes where the higher note is five scale degrees above the lower note. This interval is known for its consonant sound and is commonly used in harmony and chords, forming the foundation of many musical structures. The fifth can be perfect, diminished, or augmented, which adds to its versatility in music theory.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The perfect fifth interval is considered one of the most stable and consonant intervals in Western music, contributing significantly to the harmonic structure.
2. In terms of scale degrees, if you start on a note, the fifth interval can be found by counting up five notes in the scale, including the starting note.
3. The fifth interval plays a crucial role in chord construction, as it is an essential component of triads and seventh chords.
4. When tuning instruments like guitars or pianos, the perfect fifth is often used as a reference point for tuning strings or keys.
5. In classical music, the relationship between the tonic and dominant chords is built on the perfect fifth interval, creating tension and resolution in harmonic progressions.

Review Questions

• How does the concept of a perfect fifth differ from a diminished or augmented fifth in terms of sound quality?
  • The perfect fifth interval is characterized by its consonant sound and stability, consisting of seven half steps. In contrast, a diminished fifth has a dissonant quality due to being one half step smaller than the perfect fifth, totaling six half steps. An augmented fifth creates tension with its unique sound as it is one half step larger than the perfect fifth, resulting in eight half steps. This difference in sound quality affects how each interval is used within musical contexts.
• What role does the fifth interval play in chord construction and harmonic progression?
  • The fifth interval is fundamental in building chords as it forms part of triads and seventh chords. For example, in a major triad, the root note combined with its third and perfect fifth creates a full sound. In harmonic progression, the relationship between tonic and dominant chords is based on the perfect fifth, providing tension that resolves back to the tonic. This interplay between stability and tension forms a key aspect of musical composition.
• Evaluate the importance of the fifth interval in various musical styles and how it influences their characteristics.
  • The fifth interval is vital across many musical styles due to its stability and versatility. In classical music, it forms essential harmonic structures that create tension and resolution. In jazz and contemporary genres, musicians often use altered fifths (diminished or augmented) to add complexity and color to their harmonies. Additionally, folk and popular music frequently rely on the perfect fifth for catchy melodies and singable lines. The consistent presence of this interval underscores its influence on musical expression across diverse genres.

Related terms

perfect fifth: A perfect fifth is a specific type of fifth interval that consists of seven half steps, creating a consonant sound that is often used in harmony.

diminished fifth: A diminished fifth is an interval that is one half step smaller than a perfect fifth, consisting of six half steps, and often has a dissonant quality.

augmented fifth: An augmented fifth is an interval that is one half step larger than a perfect fifth, consisting of eight half steps, giving it a unique and tension-filled sound.