As your child starts the second year of Let's Play Music, they'll dive into the concept of intervals. Here’s why intervals are so important and how they’ll help in their musical journey.
What is an Interval?
In music, an interval is defined as the difference in pitch between two notes. Think of it as the space between two sounds, which can be measured in terms of steps and skips. For instance, in our Turtle Shells song, students use their hands to create different intervals, visually and audibly demonstrating how intervals work.
The Two Types of Intervals
Harmonic Intervals: These occur when two notes are played simultaneously. Students will soon be able to recognize these intervals by sight and sound, thanks to our turtle shells.
Melodic Intervals: These are intervals that occur when notes are played one after another. For example, a "baby step" is a melodic second, and a "skip" is a melodic third. By understanding melodic intervals, students can better grasp how melodies are constructed.
Why Intervals Matter
Music Reading: Just like we read words in chunks, recognizing intervals helps students read music faster and more easily, rather than note by note.
Singing: Knowing intervals helps students sing accurately. In class, they practice singing different intervals, like “Do-Re-Do,” to train their voices.
Composing: Understanding intervals helps students turn their melody ideas into full songs. They can use intervals to figure out the notes and add chords for a complete composition.
Practice Makes Perfect
The more your child practices recognizing and using intervals, the better they will become at reading music, singing, and composing. Encourage them to engage in interval-related activities both in and out of class. Whether it's through singing exercises, identifying intervals on the keyboard, or using reference songs, continuous practice will help them become proficient in using intervals.
Intervals might seem like a small aspect of music, but their impact is significant. As your student progresses through their musical journey, they’ll find that intervals are indeed "the nicest sound they've ever heard!" Keep up the ear training and support their growth in this essential musical skill.
Learn more about the philosophies behind Let’s Play Music methods below.
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