Ear Training woes.

[Dazzare]

Im having some troubles with Intervals like a m2 and a M7 sound a lot alike to me p5 and p4 I have the same problem. Any Tips you guys could offer?

[Stumbo]

Originally Posted by Dazzare

Im having some troubles with Intervals like a m2 and a M7 sound a lot alike to me p5 and p4 I have the same problem. Any Tips you guys could offer?

IME, a lot more practice on a regular (daily) basis (vocalizing the intervals is very helpful).

Here are a few links with ear training guides/exercises:
Goodear.com
Test your ear
Free downloadable ear trainer (basic/advanced) Xlnt program
Trainers/tutorials. Music theory, ear training, read music, chords, intervals, etc.
Online Visual Beginning Theory, ear trainer

If you have a keyboard to practice with, that may help. Learn to play some tunes and sing the melodies.

Find some songs with intervals you're working on.

Practice your vocals karaoke style: Best Practice (free download) can eliminate(majorly reduce) vocals from most tunes.

[BassChuck]

I had that problem too. Harmonically, the intervals you mentioned function the same way. In other words as leading tones (m2, M7) or as a V-I root movement (P4, P5). As you listen to the intervals, try connecting them more with a melodic movement and not to think of them in the context of a chord. I know that may sound a little odd, since you may not be aware of how you are listening to them. Play simple songs and as you come across these intervals go over the melodic phrase that contains them and listen... maybe even make up words to go along with them.
Good luck. Ear training is a process, not an event. Everyone learns at a different speed, so give yourself time and don't get discouraged.

[sammyp]

For the m2 the "tune" to think of or practice hearing is "Jaws".

for the M7 i try to hear it as a major scale that hasn't quite finished up at the octave