Intervals
In Clairnote DN intervals are easy to identify. Each interval is visually distinct so it is simple to distinguish one interval from another. On the staff above, notice how each type of interval has a distinct appearance, and how that makes it easy to identify them and differentiate between them.
If an interval spans an even number of semitones then both notes are solid or both are hollow. If it spans an odd number of semitones then one note is solid and the other is hollow. (This is the result of Clairnote DN 's 6-6 pitch pattern .)
For example, you can clearly see the difference between major thirds and minor thirds (shown above), which is not possible in traditional music notation. When compared with intervals in traditional music notation , Clairnote DN is more clear, consistent, and direct.
Intervals are some of the most basic building blocks of music. Being able to clearly and consistently see the differences between them leads to a better awareness and understanding of music and common musical patterns.
Improvising and playing by ear are skills that involve an intuitive awareness of the interval relationships between notes. Yet in traditional notation these relationships are obscured. How might one's ability to play by ear and improvise improve by using a notation system that made interval relationships more readily apparent?
Below is a comprehensive illustration of all the common intervals (from unisons up through octaves) showing the consistent pattern in their appearance. The number of semitones spanned by each interval is given in parentheses.
The following two PDF files contain illustrations of intervals in Clairnote DN like those shown below, but arranged in a 4×3 grid pattern in order to highlight similarities in their appearance.
Intervals in Clairnote DN grouped A (PDF)
Intervals in Clairnote DN grouped B (PDF)
To practice reading intervals play the intervals game on the Learn page.
