Music Transposition Calculator
Calculate the transposition interval between two keys. Determine how many semitones to shift music from one key to another.
Transposition Interval
+2 semitones
Transpose from C to D
Transpose up 2 semitones
How to Use This Calculator
- Select the original key (the key the music is currently in).
- Select the target key (the key you want to transpose to).
- The calculator displays the transposition interval in semitones.
- Apply this interval to all notes/chords in your song to transpose it.
Transposition Formula
Transposition interval is calculated by finding the distance between keys:
Example: Transposing from C to D: D (index 2) - C (index 0) = +2 semitones. Transposing from C to Bb: Bb (index 10) - C (index 0) = -2 semitones (or +10 semitones, same as -2).
Full Description
Music transposition is the process of moving a piece of music from one key to another by shifting all notes and chords by the same interval. This is one of the most common tasks in music, whether you\'re adapting a song to fit a singer\'s range, matching other instruments, or playing in a more comfortable key. Transposition preserves all musical relationships while changing the overall pitch.
Transposition is measured in semitones (half steps), the smallest interval in Western music. Moving up 1 semitone raises every note by one step in the chromatic scale. Moving up 12 semitones (one octave) returns to the same note names but an octave higher. The interval between keys determines how many semitones to shift each note.
This calculator helps you determine the transposition interval between any two keys. Select the original and target keys, and it shows how many semitones to shift. Use it when adapting songs, matching instruments, or understanding how keys relate to each other. Transposition is an essential skill for any musician.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is music transposition?
Transposition is moving music from one key to another by shifting all notes by the same interval. For example, transposing a song from C to D means moving every note up 2 semitones. This preserves the relationships between notes while changing the overall pitch.
Why would I need to transpose music?
Common reasons: adapting songs to fit a singer's vocal range, matching other instruments, playing in a more comfortable key, or creating variations. Transposition is essential for making music work in different contexts.
How do I transpose an entire song?
Transpose each note/chord by the same number of semitones. For example, to transpose from C to D (up 2 semitones): C becomes D, F becomes G, Am becomes Bm, etc. The calculator shows you the interval, then apply it to all notes in your song.
Does transposition change the sound?
Transposition changes the pitch but preserves all musical relationships. A song in C sounds the same as in D, just higher. However, different keys can feel different due to instrument timbre, vocal range, or absolute pitch perception.