Music theory definition
Middle C
The C near the middle of a piano, written C4. The number tells you which C to play, since there are several.
Hear an example
Play the example and listen for the idea described above.
Naming octaves
is C4. Up one : C5. Down: C3.
Learn it in context
This term is introduced in Unit 1: Sound and pitch. Work through the explanations and exercises to connect the definition with music.
- Octaves
Why notes with the same name sound alike, and what middle C is.
Explore with an interactive tool
- Instrument & staff
Play notes on your preferred instrument view or through the microphone. See them on the staff and explore intervals and chords.
Related music terms
- Keyboard
- The row of white and black keys on a piano. Press a key to make a sound; keys farther right sound higher.
- Fret
- One of the metal strips across a guitar neck. Moving up by one fret raises a note by one half step.
- Fretboard
- The front of a guitar, bass, or ukulele neck, where you press strings to choose notes.
- Piano key
- One of the white or black pieces you press on a piano to make a sound. This is different from a musical key, such as C major.
- Vibration
- A quick back-and-forth movement that makes sound. A piano string vibrates when you press a key.
- Note name
- A letter used to name a musical sound: A, B, C, D, E, F, or G. The names repeat as you go higher.