AP Music Theory Flashcards: Interval Size and Quality
Written by AP Content Team, Verified for 2026 AP Exams, Last updated: May 2026
Review key ideas with interactive flashcards. This set includes 10 cards to help you master important concepts.
How is an interval identified, whether in performed or notated music?
In both performed and notated music, an interval is identified by its size and quality.
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How is an interval identified, whether in performed or notated music?
In both performed and notated music, an interval is identified by its size and quality.
Define a 'step' in the context of melodic intervals.
A step is a melodic interval that traverses adjacent pitches of neighboring letter names, such as C up to D.
If a C and a G are played at the same time on a piano, is the resulting interval harmonic or melodic?
The interval is harmonic because it describes the distance between simultaneous pitches.
Is the melodic movement from C up to D an example of a step or a leap?
This is an example of a step, as it traverses adjacent pitches of neighboring letter names.
What is a melodic interval?
Melodic intervals describe the distance between pitches that are played successively (one after another).
What two characteristics are used to describe an interval?
An interval is described by its size (the distance between pitches, like a second or fifth) and its quality (major, minor, perfect, etc.).
Define a 'leap' in the context of melodic intervals.
A leap is a melodic interval that traverses a distance larger than a step, such as C up to E.
What is an interval?
An interval is the distance in pitch between two notes, designated by its size (e.g., second or fifth) and quality (e.g., major, minor).
What are the two generic types of melodic intervals?
The two generic types of melodic intervals are steps, which move to adjacent pitches, and leaps, which move to any pitch larger than a step away.
What is a harmonic interval?
Harmonic intervals describe the distance between pitches that are played simultaneously.