Q. What is a tritone?

A. A tritone is a specific type of interval. It can start on any note, but the interval must be an augmented fourth or diminished fifth (these are the same). For example, if the bottom note is C, the top note will be F# (C to F is a fourth, then one must augment this by a semitone to get to F#). This also works if one thinks of it as a diminished fifth: C to G is a fifth, then make the interval smaller by a semitone to get to the F#. A tritone has also been called 'the Devil in music', and can be recognised in some songs, such as Leonard Bernstein's 'Maria' from "West Side Story".

ES
Answered by Emily S. Music tutor

5026 Views

See similar Music A Level tutors

Related Music A Level answers

All answers ▸

Explain the role of Miles Davis as a soloist and band leader in 'Round Midnight'.


What is a da capo aria?


Examine the flying theme from ET by John Williams and highlight how this piece represents flight.


What is word painting?


We're here to help

contact us iconContact usWhatsapp logoMessage us on Whatsapptelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

© MyTutorWeb Ltd 2013–2025

Terms & Conditions|Privacy Policy
Cookie Preferences