Definitions of tuning terms

© 1998 by Joseph L. Monzo

All definitions by Joe Monzo unless otherwise cited


Pythagorean


    an adjective describing the construction of a scale or musical system by successions of 3/2's (just "perfect fifths")

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

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    In JustMusic terminology, such a system would be described as a cycle of powers of 3. Pythagoras was given credit in ancient Greece for discovering the properties of musical ratio numbers, with an emphasis on what we would today call powers of 3.

    [from Joe Monzo, JustMusic: A New Harmony]

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    Pertaining to the philosopher Pythagoras.

    In tuning theory, Pythagorean refers to a system of tuning by Perfect Fourths, Fifths and Octaves.

    Important Pythagorean intervals are:

    [from John Chalmers, Divisions of the Tetrachord]


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