What is interval ear training?
An interval is the distance between two pitches. Interval ear training asks you to hear that relationship instead of identifying notes only from their written names or instrument positions. The notes may sound one after another—a melodic interval—or together as a harmonic interval. This beginner exercise uses melodic intervals so the direction and distance can be heard separately.
The examples are generated in your browser. They are original sound signals, not excerpts from songs, recordings or exam materials. The starting pitch changes so that you practise the relationship rather than memorizing one fixed pair.
Why does this exercise begin with four intervals?
A small answer set makes feedback understandable. A minor second spans one semitone, a major second spans two, a minor third spans three and a major third spans four. Presenting every possible interval immediately can turn the task into elimination. Once these close relationships become stable across different roots and directions, add perfect fourths and fifths in a later practice level.
| Interval | Semitones | Listening focus |
|---|---|---|
| Minor second | 1 | The closest step in this set |
| Major second | 2 | A whole-step relationship |
| Minor third | 3 | Wider than a step, narrower than a major third |
| Major third | 4 | The widest relationship in this beginner set |
What should you do after a wrong answer?
- Replay the interval and notice its direction.
- Sing or hum the second note after the first.
- Count the semitone distance only after you have listened.
- Compare the correct interval with the option you chose.
- Try the relationship again from another starting note.
For a full method and a two-week plan, read how to recognize intervals by ear. You can also return to the ear-training resource hub to practise a different listening skill.