Definitions of tuning terms

© 1998 by Joseph L. Monzo

All definitions by Joe Monzo unless otherwise cited


Tonality Diamond


    an arbitrary arrangement of the Monophonic ratios designed to constitute prima facie proof of the at least dual identity of each ratio, and consequently of the capacity of a Monophonic system of Just Intonation for providing tones that may be taken in more than one sense each.

    [from Partch 1974, Genesis of a Music, 2nd ed., Da Capo Press, New York, p. 74-75]

    Partch's Incipient Tonality Diamond (5-Limit):



    [from Partch 1974, Genesis of a Music, 2nd ed., Da Capo Press, New York, p. 110]

    (for a different view of this diamond, see the Monzo 5-Limit Lattice)

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

A chordal complex consisting of interlocking harmonic and subharmonic chords sharing a single tonic. It may be constructed by building replicas of a harmonic chord on roots that are the components of the octave inversion of the original. The highest prime (3, 5, 7, 11, etc.) number appearing in the chords determines the "limit".

The Diamond may be understood as the harmonic expansion of a single complex sound.

See Partch, Harry (1949, 1974, 1977).

[from John Chalmers, Divisions of the Tetrachord]


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