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11 Half and Whole Steps

The distance from any key to its nearest neighbor, whether a black or white key, is a half step.

 

Half steps on the keyboard

Half steps on the keyboard

 

Two half steps equal one whole step.

 

Whole steps on the keyboard

Whole steps on the keyboard

 

Distinguishing between half steps and whole steps is essential for playing scale patterns. Identify each interval below as a half step (H) or whole step (W):

Half or Whole Step 1
H   or   W
Half or Whole Step 6
H   or   W
Half or Whole Step 5
H   or   W
Half or Whole Step 4
H   or   W
Half or Whole Step 3
H   or   W
Half or Whole Step 2
H   or   W

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Baylor Piano Basics Copyright © by Michael Clark. All Rights Reserved.