Descending minor and major third

[originalvonster]

I'm really struggling with identifying these when they are descending, any tips? I particularly struggle when they are in a different octave to the interval example songs I am using (Hey Jude and Swing Low).

[Quentin]

Descending 3rds can be tricky as Major 3rd descending sounds like the beginning of a minor triad played descending (and vice-versa with a minor 3rd). So when in doubt, you could try to sing the rest of the triad.

[fnfunkin]

I’ve definitely struggled with descending intervals too, especially when they’re in a lower or higher octave than the examples I know. It helps me to hum the interval downward slowly first and compare it to a familiar melody, even if it’s not the same octave. Over time, my ear started recognizing the shape of the interval rather than just the absolute pitch.

[coralester]

Yeah, I can relate to that a lot. Focusing on the “shape” of the interval instead of the exact pitch really makes a difference. Humming it slowly is a great approach too—I’ve found that practicing in different octaves helps train the ear to stay consistent no matter where the notes sit.

[aggravated]

You’re definitely not alone—descending intervals can feel way trickier than ascending ones. One thing that helped me was flipping the interval in my head and thinking of it as ascending instead, then identifying it that way. Also, try practicing with simple scales and focusing on how each interval feels, not just how it sounds in songs. Slowing things down and using a piano or app to isolate the notes can really make a difference too. It gets easier with time!