Definitions of tuning terms
© 1998 by Joseph L. Monzo
All definitions by Joe Monzo unless otherwise cited
moment of symmetry, MOS
A term coined by Erv Wilson in 1975. The process of producing a
scale of melodic integrity by the superposition of a single interval
(generator). Those points where there are only 2 different size intervals
are called moments of symmetry. This cycle has the property that any
occurrence of an interval will always be subtended by the same number of
steps.
When a harmonic system is used instead of a single interval and
all the melodic gaps are filled the scale is referred to as a constant
structure.
It has been found useful to utilize deeper levels within the MOS. The
best example of this Bifocal MOS are the pentatonics taken from the
Diatonic.
Here from a Parent MOS (Diatonic) another smaller MOS
(Pentatonics) set can be found which, although it will not have the property
of every interval being subtended by the same number of steps, the
generator interval (fourth or fifth) will be.
[from Kraig Grady]
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