Definitions of tuning terms

© 1998 by Joseph L. Monzo

All definitions by Joe Monzo unless otherwise cited

12th-tone, twelfth-tone, 1/12-tone


    Calculated as the 72nd root of 2, or 2(1/72), an irrational proportion with the approximate ratio of 1: 1.009673533, and an interval size of exactly 16 & 2/3 cents.

    It is the size of one degree, and thus the basic "step" size, in the 72-EDO (or 72-tET) scale, also called the "twelfth-tone scale" or system.

    Several composers and theorists have advocated this system, including Ivan Wyschnegradsky, Alois Hába, Franz Richter Herf, Ezra Sims, Joe Maneri, Paul Erlich, and myself.


    [from Joe Monzo, JustMusic: A New Harmony]


    see also:

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