Learn music theory with Sonid 4: Perfect Prime


Author: Lida van der Eijk

Today's topic: "What is a perfect unison?" Also called a unison, prime or perfect prime. In this video you will learn how to construct and identify a perfect unison interval in 30 seconds. Including some examples and common mistakes.


An interval is the distance between two notes.

To identify an interval you must:


- 1 (number) - count the amount of naturals

- 2 (quality) - count the semitone steps


A perfect prime, or perfect unison, is essentially an interval of two notes of the same pitch. Such as C to C, or D to D.


However, there are some cases where those two notes are actually using a different natural. And as s such, the interval will be named differently, though the sound may be the same. An example of this would be a C sharp to a D flat. Or E sharp to F.


This may sound a little confusing at first, and it probably is. But when advancing in music theory it is an essential skill to understand. With it, you will be able to create chords, scales and progressions.


So, to correctly construct or identify a perfect unison make sure both notes use the same natural. And there are no semitones between the notes (both notes are the same pitch).


That's it, you can now use the perfect prime!



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