Definitions of tuning terms

© 1998 by Joseph L. Monzo

All definitions by Joe Monzo unless otherwise cited


Numerary Nexus


    the number common to all identities in the ratios of one tonality -- the common anchor; the characteristic of a series of ratios that determines them as a tonality. In the 8/5 Otonality the Numerary Nexus is 5, as seen in the sequence of the six Odentities:

    11/10 [= 11/5 in Partch's theory]
    9/5
    7/5
    6/5
    1/1 (= 5/5)
    8/5

    In the 5/4 Utonality the Numerary Nexus is also 5, as seen in the sequence of the six Udentities:

    20/11 [= 5/11]
    10/9 [= 5/9]
    10/7 [= 5/7]
    5/3
    1/1 (= 5/5)
    5/4

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

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

    Kami Rousseau suggested the following:

    How about a clearer example, like
    5 6 7 8 9 10
    5 5 5 5 5 5


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