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Definitions of tuning terms
© 1998 by Joseph L. Monzo
All definitions by Joe Monzo unless otherwise cited
comma
One of several small
intervals with a size of about
an "eighth-tone" [= 0.25 Semitone = 25 cents]. They
occur in a system of just-intonation,
or when considering intervals as ratios.
The three commas which are most commonly encountered
are the Syntonic, the
Pythagorean, and the
Septimal.
When used unqualified, it generally refers specifically
to the Syntonic Comma.
[from Joe Monzo, JustMusic: A New Harmony]
(Greek: "cut", "crack" plural: commata)
Any of several small intervals near an eighth of a tone (25¢).
The best known of these are the Syntonic Comma, the Pythagorean Comma (24¢) which is the difference between twelve Perfect Fifths and seven Octaves, and the Septimal Comma (27¢).
[from John Chalmers, Divisions of the Tetrachord]
From Dave Keenan, Yahoo tuning-math list, Message 5802
From: "Dave Keenan
[much snipped ...]
At least now the word "comma" only has to carry two meanings, where
one is a generalisation of the other. Here's my suggestion.
Comma
1. A difference between pitch ratios that is typically smaller than a
scale step. May include
schismas,
kleismas,
commas (2),
dieses,
limmas
and small
semitones.
2. A difference between
pitch
ratios
that is typically in the range 10 to 40
cents,
as opposed to schismas and kleismas being smaller, and
dieses, limmas and small semitones being larger.
see also
Date: Sat Feb 8, 2003 7:42 pm
Subject: That poor overloaded word "comma"
anomaly
diesis
kleisma
skhisma
5-limit intervals,
100 cents and under
comma pump
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