Free printable · Interval Hero

Interval Shapes on the Staff

Every interval below starts on the same note, so you can see the shape change.

The rule: odd-numbered intervals sit on the same kind of place: both on lines, or both in spaces. Even-numbered intervals straddle: one on a line, one in a space.

Same kind: odd intervals

Both noteheads on lines (or both in spaces). Count the gap: adjacent = 3rd, skip one = 5th, skip two = 7th.

Straddling: even intervals

One notehead on a line, the other in a space.

How to use this: check the shape first (same kind or straddling) and you've halved the possibilities before thinking about size. Then judge the gap. Learn 2nds, 3rds and the octave first; they're the most common and the easiest to spot.

Drill this free in the browser at Interval Hero. Full method in the reading guide · more sheets at interval-hero.app/printables.

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