Any time we consider two pitches, we consider the relationship between those pitches. That relationship is called an interval. If you understand how to identify, spell, find, and play a half step, you can always identify, spell, find, and play a whole step, since a whole step consists of two half steps. Adjacent Keys You can use a keyboard to find, identify, and play half steps and half steps. We can't discuss half steps without discussing accidentals .
Accidentals are symbols placed in front of a note which raise or lower the pitch.
The names in parenthesis allow us to discuss them easily in email messages or in online quizzes, etc. Do the Written Exercises on pp 52-53.