We will first discuss generic intervals, which are measured on the staff.




When two notes occupy the same line or space, they are a first (or a prime) apart.




C to C is an example of a first.




C to Cb and C to C# are also firsts.




When two notes are askewed to each other, they are a second apart.




C to D is an example of a second.




C to D#, Cb to D, and Cb to D# are also seconds.




When two notes are stacked tightly together, they are a third apart.




C to E is an example of a third.




E to G and F to A are also thirds.




As the notes become further apart, their interval type increases.




C to F is a fourth.




C to G is a fifth.




C to A is a sixth.




C to B is a seventh.




C to C is an eighth (or octave).