Interval cycle
Article
In music theory, an interval cycle is a sequence of pitch classes created by repeatedly adding the same musical interval. Because pitch classes repeat at the octave, the process eventually returns to its starting point.
In twelve-tone equal temperament, the number of distinct notes in the cycle depends on the interval's size and its mathematical relationship with twelve. Repeated semitones form a twelve-note cycle, whole tones form a six-note cycle, and minor thirds form a four-note cycle.
Some cycles divide the octave symmetrically and produce collections such as the whole-tone scale, diminished-seventh chord, and augmented triad. Others traverse all twelve pitch classes before repeating.
Interval cycles are used in post-tonal analysis, serial music, symmetrical harmony, modulation, and composition. They reveal how repeated transformations organise pitch independently of traditional keys.
Source details and credits
- Source / publisher: Wikipedia
- URL type: WWW
- Credits: Wikipedia
- URL: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Interval_cycle