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Geometric Interval Constructor is an interactive simulation in which musical intervals are created inside a circle using lines or geometric shapes. It provides a visual way to look at interval distances and relationships.
This application is part of a larger collection of applications at Teoria.com, each designed to demonstrate fundamental music theory concepts.
Learning Goals:
To learn the distances of each class of interval and the relationships of like intervals. Based on users selection of interval type and root note, they are presented with a visual display.
Used in one of two modes (simple interval or circular), simple Interval joins with a line the two notes that form the selected interval. In Circular mode a geometric figure is created using the selected interval. The figure shows the notes needed to do a complete cycle and return to the first note using the interval. For example, if you choose major third the notes will be C - E - G#/Ab - C
Target Student Population:
High School, College General Ed, Professional
Prerequisite Knowledge or Skills:
A basic understanding of intervals is needed to understand the content of this site.
Type of Material:
Music theory simulation application.
Recommended Uses:
This application could be used to reinforce the concepts behind the construction of intervals. Assignments could be created to test a students knowledge of interval relationships between like intervals.
Technical Requirements:
User needs a modern browser with HTML 5 and Javascript support and can also be run on iPad or iPhone.
Evaluation and Observation
Content Quality
Rating:
Strengths:
This application is very clearly designed to offer a visual demonstration of the distances between intervals and show their relationship to each other. The content is accurate and covers all possible interval combinations.
Concerns:
When using circular mode, it is sometimes unclear how a user should spell the interval…as in the case of enharmonic equivalents. Yes…an interval is an interval, but what is the correct spelling? Ex: Perfect fourth shows root note of C connecting to both F and G. The ‘direction’ is clockwise, but the root is still clearly defined visually, so it can be confusing.
Potential Effectiveness as a Teaching Tool
Rating:
Strengths:
The strength of this application regarding potential effectiveness is in the straight forward visual demonstration of interval distances.
Concerns:
The effectiveness of this application depends on the assignments and exercises a teacher would create to reinforce interval concepts presented in the classroom. This application is also potentially confusing in terms of properly spelling the intervals in circular mode.
Ease of Use for Both Students and Faculty
Rating:
Strengths:
This application is easy to use. The interface is intuitive and easy to figure out how to use without instruction. This application also works well on an iPad.
Concerns:
Smaller screen sizes than tablet may be a little more difficult to see/navigate
