Definitions of tuning terms

© 1998 by Joseph L. Monzo

All definitions by Joe Monzo unless otherwise cited


Gipsy [Gypsy] Scale


    A scale consisting of a whole tone and two neo-chromatic tetrachords, i.e., B C# D E# F# G A# b (Dallin, 1974, p. 41.). This scale is sometimes called the Hungarian Minor.

    [from John Chalmers, Divisions of the Tetrachord]

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

    Gypsy scales = ... Hungarian scales. [???] A mystification.

    Gypsy diatonic scales are identical with Helmholtz scales (both - major and minor), see the Mills archive. Concerning the Hungarian scale - it has its own and very interesting identity, but it is - PENTATONIC, so not diatonic. Theoretically, it can be viewed as a mode of gypsy scale structure, but to assert that is a grubby cultural nonsense.

    [from Jan Haluska, personal communication]


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