Music Interval Calculator
Compare written pitches by semitones, direction and musical interval.
Secure. Data stays in your browserCalculate a written musical interval
An interval has both a letter distance and a chromatic distance. C to D♯ and C to E♭ are both three semitones, but their spellings make them an augmented second and a minor third respectively. Octave numbers follow scientific pitch notation, with middle C written C4. The calculator respects accidentals and the number of written letters, including compound intervals above an octave. Unusual spellings can produce doubly augmented or diminished intervals; the semitone count remains a useful check.
Using the Musical Interval Calculator
Find the interval between two written notes, including the effect of spelling and octave. Choose the note names used in your score rather than replacing every accidental with an equivalent one.
Instructions
- Select First note and First octave, then Second note and Second octave.
- Read the interval name, direction, semitones and written staff steps.
- Change the second note's spelling or octave to compare a different interval. Results update as you change the controls.
Why equivalent pitches can name different intervals
C4 to D♯4 is an augmented second, while C4 to E♭4 is a minor third. Both span three semitones, but their letter names cover different staff distances. Octave numbers matter too: C4 to C5 is an octave, not a unison.
What to do if the interval name is unfamiliar
- Check accidentals and octave numbers against the written notes. Unusual spellings can create augmented or diminished intervals.
- Read direction as well as distance. Reversing the notes changes ascending to descending.
- If the written letters move against the sounding pitch, use the semitone count as the chromatic check and review the spelling.
Use this to check notation exercises or a melody's written intervals. It calculates entered pitches; it does not identify an interval from audio.
