This video is for those studying grade 4, or equivalent, ABRSM (associated board) music theory exams. It covers how to calculate the name and number of intervals which use key signatures of up to 5 sharps or flats. There is a also a small section on the use of double-flats, double-sharps and their enharmonics. Grade 4 music theory can be complicated so it is advised that viewers watch Part 2 of this series of videos first to ensure that they are familiar with the concepts discussed in part 3.
September 1st, 2010 at 2:32 pm
I understand the whole working out from Major and perfect diagram you drew out in the previous video, and this may be going too far out of my league, or just being ignorant, but what’s the difference between these perfect and major notes in a scale?
If that question sounds quite stupid, i don’t really know how to phrase it any better, sorry. What i’m possibly trying to say is what would – in scales – make something major or perfect? Is it simply down to semitones from the tonic note as well?
September 1st, 2010 at 2:46 pm
@musictheoryguy Great! I look forward to it. I really know very little about music theory but I have always been curious about it.
September 1st, 2010 at 3:06 pm
Thanks for taking the time to write this. In regards to your last point (why use C##, or Cx, instead of D) I have tried to squeeze this concept into a previous video. However, the 10 minute rule imposed by YouTube scuppered this. I do still have the graphics saved for a future video, watch this space.
As for the inclusion of sound examples – a very good idea. This won’t be included in my next video (already in production) but I will bear this in mind for all other releases. Thanks again.
September 1st, 2010 at 3:26 pm
I am not a musician but I am a professional math and science teacher with a good ear. I was poking around your channel out of curiosity. I would say there are two things that would improve this video. Since you target audience is musically inclined I would play examples showing the semitone count and equivalency. This will help your students make associations that will strengthen their memory, You also might want to explain why anyone would want to ever use a C## instead of a D.
September 1st, 2010 at 3:53 pm
And 5 *****
September 1st, 2010 at 4:42 pm
Thats really so beautiful, your way of explaining is fantastic and the video is really well made.
Thank you for sharing your ideas in lecturing.
September 1st, 2010 at 5:11 pm
I can see why you are a little confused. . . D to F is a minor 3rd (in any key) not a major 3rd. Always use C major when working out intervals – have another look at part 2 of these interval videos which discusses the importance of using C major. Let me know how you get on.
Best wishes.
September 1st, 2010 at 6:00 pm
im a bit confused. the last interval in the video, the D to Fx, if you count using the F maj scale, D to F natural is a major third. Then you add 2 sharps. . doesn’t it raise the major 3rd by two semitones?
thanks!
September 1st, 2010 at 6:01 pm
Hi. If you’re sitting an ABRSM exam then, yes, you are allowed a scrap piece of paper to jot things down. I always advise my students to draw a keyboard and the circle of fifths as soon as the exam period starts. Both drawings will be needed at some stage in the exam and will be of great help when the relevant questions appear. Good luck!
September 1st, 2010 at 6:39 pm
I hope that I can draw a keyboard on my exam. Otherwise this stuff can be pretty tricky!
September 1st, 2010 at 7:00 pm
Man intervals are complicated business!