Whole Steps and Half Steps Theory Lesson

Our very first theory lesson will define whole steps and half steps.

It is assumed that you have basic sight reading skills. If you are totally new to the piano try searching my piano links page for some free piano lessons that cover the basics of notation as this is an important part of music.

First we will look at the half step. A half step is from one key to the next key without skipping any notes. All keys are included whether they are black or white.

Next is the whole step. A whole step consists of two half steps. A whole step always skips a key.

An important note is that you will often hear musicians refer to whole steps and half steps as tones and semi-tones as well. Watch the video below for full details!