compound interval: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
LowTechnical / Academic
Quick answer
What does “compound interval” mean?
In music theory, an interval larger than an octave.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
In music theory, an interval larger than an octave.
A musical interval that spans more than eight diatonic scale degrees (e.g., a ninth, tenth, or eleventh). It is considered equivalent to its simple interval counterpart (an octave smaller) but with extended range and often a fuller sound.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant differences in definition or application. Terminology is identical across both varieties.
Connotations
None beyond its technical meaning.
Frequency
Equally low-frequency and specialized in both dialects, confined to music discourse.
Grammar
How to Use “compound interval” in a Sentence
The compound interval [of a ninth] sounds rich.To [compound an interval] by adding an octave.A [compound interval] between the bass and melody.Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “compound interval” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- To create a richer texture, the composer decided to compound the initial third into a tenth.
- You can compound the interval by transposing the upper note up an octave.
American English
- The arranger compounded the interval to make the horn line more powerful.
- Jazz pianists often compound intervals in their left-hand voicings.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Not used.
Academic
Central to music theory analysis and harmony textbooks.
Everyday
Virtually never used in general conversation.
Technical
Essential in musical composition, analysis, instrumental instruction, and ear training.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “compound interval”
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “compound interval”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “compound interval”
- Confusing it with a 'chord'. An interval is only two notes. Pronouncing 'compound' with stress on the second syllable (/kəmˈpaʊnd/). Incorrectly labelling any dissonant interval as 'compound'.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No, the dissonance or consonance quality (perfect, imperfect, dissonant) is inherited from the simple interval it reduces to. A compound perfect fifth (12th) is still consonant.
You identify the number of scale degrees it spans (9th, 10th, 11th, etc.) and its quality (major, minor, perfect, etc.) based on the number of semitones, just like simple intervals.
An interval is the distance between exactly two pitches. A chord typically involves three or more pitches sounded together. A compound interval describes the relationship between two of those notes, even within a chord.
Yes. When inverted, a compound interval typically becomes another simple or compound interval. For example, inverting a compound 9th (octave + 2nd) gives a simple 7th.
Compound interval is usually technical / academic in register.
Compound interval: in British English it is pronounced /ˌkɒmpaʊnd ˈɪntəv(ə)l/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˌkɑːmpaʊnd ˈɪntɚvəl/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “None”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of a 'compound' in science as a combination of elements. A COMPOUND INTERVAL combines a simple interval PLUS an octave.
Conceptual Metaphor
DISTANCE IS VERTICAL SPACE IN MUSIC (e.g., a 'tenth' is a 'wider gap' than a 'third').
Practice
Quiz
Which of the following is NOT a compound interval?