Compound interval is a musical term used to describe the distance between two notes that exceed an octave. The IPA phonetic transcription for this word is ['kɑm.paʊnd 'ɪn.tə.vəl]. The first syllable 'kɑm' is pronounced as "kahm" with a long "a" sound. The second syllable 'paʊnd' is pronounced as "pownd" with a long "o" sound. The third syllable 'ɪn' is pronounced as "in" and the fourth syllable 'tə' is pronounced as "tuh". The final syllable 'vəl' is pronounced as "vuhl".
A compound interval is a musical term used to describe an interval that exceeds an octave (more than eight letter names) when written in its simplest form. In other words, it is an interval that goes beyond the basic or perfect intervals found within octaves. The term "compound" is derived from the Latin word "componere" which means "to put together" or "to combine," indicating that compound intervals involve combining multiple octaves.
When notated, compound intervals are written as a combination of the simple or perfect interval and the number of octaves added. For example, a compound major third is composed of two major thirds plus an additional octave. The compound interval is often notated as a simple interval, followed by the abbreviation "C" (meaning compound) and the number of octaves added.
Compound intervals are frequently used in orchestration and composition to expand the melodic range and add complexity to musical compositions. They can create a more dramatic or dissonant sound due to their wider intervallic distance. While compound intervals are less commonly found in traditional harmonies, they are extensively used in jazz, contemporary and experimental music.
Overall, a compound interval refers to an interval greater than an octave formed by combining multiple octaves and a simple interval. Its use can offer a unique harmonic color and create a compelling musical tension.
The term "compound interval" has its roots in the Latin word "componere", which means "to put together" or "to form". The word "interval" comes from the Latin word "intervallum", which refers to the space between two points.
When these two words are combined, "compound interval" is formed, suggesting that it is an interval that is made up of multiple intervals or parts. In music theory, a compound interval refers to an interval larger than an octave (eight notes) that is formed by adding one or more octaves to a simple interval (an interval within one octave). The addition of octaves creates a more complex and extended distance between the two notes.