Augmented interval

Definition

An augmented interval is a musical interval that is one half step larger than a perfect or major interval. It increases the distance between two notes, creating a sound that is often perceived as tense or dissonant. Augmented intervals can be found in various musical contexts, influencing harmony, melody, and the overall character of a piece.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Augmented intervals can be identified by counting the letter names from the root note to the target note and adjusting for half steps accordingly.
2. In terms of scale degrees, an augmented fourth can occur between the first and fourth degrees of a major scale when the fourth degree is raised.
3. Augmented intervals are commonly used in chromaticism and can create tension that resolves into more stable intervals.
4. The augmented triad consists of two stacked augmented intervals, providing a distinct sound that can add complexity to harmonic progressions.
5. In composition, augmented intervals can serve as a leading tone that propels melodies towards resolution.

Review Questions

• How does an augmented interval differ from a perfect or major interval in terms of sound and application?
  • An augmented interval differs from perfect or major intervals by being one half step larger, which contributes to its tense and dissonant quality. While perfect and major intervals generally create consonant sounds that feel stable, augmented intervals add complexity and tension to music. This difference affects their application in compositions where an increased sense of urgency or movement is desired.
• Discuss how augmented intervals can influence harmonic progressions within a musical piece.
  • Augmented intervals play a crucial role in shaping harmonic progressions by introducing tension that needs resolution. For instance, when utilized in triads, an augmented triad formed by stacked augmented intervals can create unexpected shifts in harmony. This use of tension often leads to resolutions into more stable chords, enhancing the emotional impact of the music and guiding listeners through musical narratives.
• Evaluate the significance of augmented intervals in contemporary music compared to traditional tonal harmony.
  • In contemporary music, augmented intervals are significant as they challenge traditional tonal harmony by introducing dissonance and complexity that was less prevalent in earlier styles. Unlike traditional tonal systems that often favor consonance, modern compositions frequently embrace these intervals to create unique textures and emotional landscapes. This shift reflects broader changes in musical aesthetics where tension and resolution are explored more freely, allowing for innovative expressions and soundscapes.

Related terms

perfect interval: An interval that is characterized by its consonant sound, typically including unisons, fourths, fifths, and octaves.

major interval: An interval that is typically found in scales and harmonies, consisting of two notes separated by a whole number of steps that create a pleasing sound.

diminished interval: An interval that is one half step smaller than a perfect or minor interval, often resulting in a tense or dissonant quality.