Semitone Calculator


Calculate musical intervals, frequency ratios, and note relationships with this semitone calculator. Find the distance between notes, transpose melodies, or convert between frequencies and notes.

Calculate Note Relationships

Music Theory Basics

What are Semitones?

A semitone (or half step) is the smallest musical interval commonly used in Western tonal music. It's the distance between two adjacent notes on a piano keyboard. In equal temperament, a semitone represents a frequency ratio of approximately 1.0595:1 (the 12th root of 2).

Common Musical Intervals
Semitones Interval Name Ratio (Just Intonation) Example
0 Perfect Unison 1:1 C to C
1 Minor Second 16:15 C to D♭
2 Major Second 9:8 C to D
3 Minor Third 6:5 C to E♭
4 Major Third 5:4 C to E
5 Perfect Fourth 4:3 C to F
7 Perfect Fifth 3:2 C to G
12 Perfect Octave 2:1 C to C'
Note Frequencies

In standard tuning, A4 (the A above middle C) is set to 440 Hz. Each semitone up or down changes the frequency by a factor of the 12th root of 2 (approximately 1.0595). The formula for calculating the frequency (f) of a note is:

f = A4 × 2(n-69)/12

Where n is the MIDI note number (A4 = 69) and A4 is the reference frequency (typically 440 Hz).

Understanding the Semitone Calculator

The Semitone Calculator is a valuable tool for musicians and Music enthusiasts. It helps users calculate musical intervals, frequency ratios, and note relationships. By simply selecting notes or entering frequencies, you can find out the distance between notes, transpose melodies, or convert frequencies to their corresponding notes. This calculator makes music theory easier and more accessible for everyone.

Calculate Note Relationships with Ease

One of the primary functions of the Semitone Calculator is to calculate note relationships. You can input two notes, and the calculator will determine the semitone distance between them. This is perfect for musicians looking to understand how different notes relate. With this feature, you can explore various musical intervals, such as major and minor seconds or perfect fifths.

Transposing Made Simple

Transposing music can be tricky, but the Semitone Calculator simplifies this process. You can enter a series of notes and specify how many semitones to move up or down. This feature is particularly useful for changing the key of a song. You can easily adapt your music to fit different vocal ranges or instruments.

Frequency to Note Conversions

Another fantastic feature of the Semitone Calculator is its ability to convert frequencies to musical notes. By inputting a frequency in Hertz (Hz), you can find the closest note and its corresponding MIDI number. This is a handy tool for tuning instruments or working with electronic music, where precise frequency matching is essential.

Why You’ll Love This Tool

  • Interactive and user-friendly interface for quick calculations.
  • Visual aids, including keyboard diagrams, to help you understand music theory better.
  • A variety of options, such as playing notes or showing cents values, to enhance your learning experience.

Exploring Music Theory Basics

The Semitone Calculator also provides a great opportunity to learn music theory. It offers information about semitones, musical intervals, and note frequencies. Understanding these concepts is vital for anyone looking to delve deeper into music composition or performance. Topics like intervals and their ratios are explained clearly, making it easier for beginners to grasp.

How to Make the Most of the Calculator

To get the best out of the Semitone Calculator, take time to experiment with its features. Input different notes and frequencies to see how they interact. Use the transposition feature to practice changing keys and enhancing your musical skills. The more you use it, the more familiar you’ll become with musical relationships and structures.

Your Go-To Resource for Music Calculations

In summary, the Semitone Calculator is an essential resource for anyone interested in music. Whether you're a student, teacher, or hobbyist, this tool offers a simple way to enhance your knowledge and skills. With its practical applications and user-friendly design, it’s a must-have for your musical toolkit.