Scale is the ratio of the dimensions of a model to those of the actual figure or object. It is useful in shrinking vast lands on maps and making blueprints for machines and architecture.
When using a scale, be sure to weigh the empty container first. This ensures that the weight of the container is not added to your measurement.
Intervals
Intervals are a measurement of both the written distance between two notes on a staff, and the aural distance between them sounding together (harmonic) or separately (melodic). An interval has both a size and a quality. Size is considered generic and doesn’t change despite accidentals; however, the quality of an interval changes with the number of lines and spaces it covers.
Interval sizes are measured in semitones, and there is a one-to-one correspondence between them and diatonic scale degrees. Intervals are also characterized by their root, which is determined by its approximation in the harmonic series.
Intervals have either major or minor qualities; only seconds, thirds, sixths, and sevenths use the term “minor” and all others use “major.” An interval can also be augmented or diminished. An augmented interval is half a tone bigger than a perfect interval, while a diminished interval is a whole tone smaller. Both augmentation and diminution can be continued, resulting in triply augmented and doubly diminished intervals.
Pitch
Pitch refers to the relative musical tone a listener hears and assigns to notes on a scale. It is not the same as frequency, which is measured in cycles per second and expressed as Hertz (Hz).
A musical scale consists of a group of pitch classes arranged in a particular pattern, with a special note called the keynote. The interval pattern and the keynote give the scale its name, such as C major or natural minor.
Each pitch class has a name, and the intervals between them are described by their names on a piano keyboard, as shown in Figure 6-5. A whole tone is the distance between two adjacent pitch classes, and a semitone is the difference between two subsequent ones.
Musical pitches that can be clearly identified and named are referred to as definite pitches, and many instruments produce them. Sounds that cannot be reliably categorized as higher or lower than one another are referred to as indefinite pitches.
Melodic structure
A melody is a set of notes that move up or down in pitch. This creates a feeling, mood or emotion that the composer wants to convey.
For example, a rising melody (like the first note in the above sample) will create a sense of excitement and anticipation. A falling melody (like the second note) will create a sense of calm and tranquility.
Melodies can also have specific contours that give them a particular feel. These characteristics are often referred to as melodic shape. Examples include arch shapes (in which the melody rises and falls), jagged shapes, circuitous shapes and sighing shapes.
Generally, melodies are comprised of notes from a particular scale. However, it is possible to create a compelling melody by using passing notes or embellishments that stray slightly from the scale. This adds complexity and creates a unique musical voice. However, it is important to keep in mind that melodies that are strictly based on a scale will be easier for the listener to follow.
Performance
A performance rating scale is a tool that helps managers evaluate employees’ work. A reliable rating system increases employee satisfaction and helps managers make data-driven decisions that improve the company’s performance. A performance rating scale can include multiple levels, such as five-points, and can be used to distinguish between high, average, and low performers.
To create a reliable and valid scale, researchers must ensure that the instrument measures what it claims to measure. This requires testing the internal consistency of the scale and assessing convergent validity between the domains. A Cronbach’s alpha of 0.70 or higher indicates that the scale is reliable and valid.
The first step in creating a performance rating scale is to design an assessment tool that measures the desired behaviors. A behaviorally anchored rating scale (BARS) uses a set of specific behaviors that are used as common reference points called anchors to rate employees on various dimensions such as teamwork. This method provides a more objective and accurate evaluation of employee performance.