Interval vs. Interlude — What's the Difference?

Intervals and interludes are both concepts that involve breaks or pauses, but they serve different purposes and contexts. An interval is primarily a period of time between events, often used to denote breaks in performances, such as in theater or musical concerts, or in the context of time sequences. An interlude, on the other hand, is a short, intervening period or event that occurs as a break or diversion within the larger structure of a performance, piece of music, or event. It often serves to entertain or provide a transition between the main sections.

While intervals allow for rest or a pause in activity, giving participants or audience members a break, interludes fill the gap with content, which can be either related or unrelated to the main event. For example, in a play, an interval might be an intermission between acts for the audience to rest, whereas an interlude might be a musical or performance piece presented during the interval or between scenes to maintain audience engagement.

Intervals are defined by their function of separating segments of time or events, often for practical reasons like rest or preparation for what follows. Interludes, however, are characterized by their content and their role in providing entertainment, transition, or thematic connection within the overarching framework of an event or performance.

The choice between using an interval or an interlude depends on the purpose of the break. If the goal is to give a clear separation between parts of an event and to provide a rest, an interval is used. If the aim is to enhance the experience with additional content or to smoothly transition between sections, an interlude is employed.

In music, the distinction is also evident: intervals can refer to the space between notes, reflecting silence or a pause in the melody, while musical interludes are short pieces of music inserted between sections of a larger piece, often providing contrast or a thematic link.