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Music TheoryEar Training: Recognizing Intervals
Ear Training: Recognizing Intervals
Goal
Learn how to identify the distance between notes by ear.
The "Song Association" Method
The easiest way to recognize intervals is to associate them with the first two notes of a famous song.
| Interval | Name | Song Reference |
|---|---|---|
| Major 2nd | C to D | Happy Birthday |
| Major 3rd | C to E | When the Saints Go Marching In |
| Perfect 4th | C to F | Here Comes the Bride |
| Perfect 5th | C to G | Twinkle Twinkle Little Star / Star Wars |
| Octave | C to (High) C | Somewhere Over the Rainbow |
The Blind Test
Close your eyes.
Play two notes on the piano.
Try to hum the "reference song" to see if it fits the distance.
Repeat until you can identify a Perfect 5th instantly!
Quick Recap
Intervals are the distance between notes.
Ear training is like learning a new language.
Use songs as your guide.
Apply Your Knowledge
Practice what you just learned with these songs