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Notes, Pitch & MelodyA–Z index
Notes, Pitch & Melody

Pitch

also called “how high or low”
The short version

How high or low a sound is.

A little more

Fast vibrations sound high, slow vibrations sound low. We measure that speed in hertz (Hz) — 440 vibrations per second is the A most instruments tune to.

Hear it
Why you'd carePitch is the raw material of melody, bass lines and chords. A drum has pitch too — that's why some kicks feel 'lower' than others.
Learn next
NoteOne musical sound with a pitch and a length.OctaveThe same note name, higher or lower.FrequencyHow fast a sound vibrates, measured in hertz.

88 words and counting in The Music Guide. Back to the guide