Definitions of tuning terms

© 1998 by Joseph L. Monzo

All definitions by Joe Monzo unless otherwise cited


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    When intervals are very small, they can be highly dissonant although they may be represented by small-numbered ratios. When intervals are very large, they may have very low dissonance _and_ consonance. For example, one can play almost any notes together 6 octaves apart on a piano and they won't sound particularly consonant, but they won't clash either. This runs contrary to the idea that consonance and dissonance represent opposite ends of the same spectrum [see sonance - Monzo]. No rigorous adjustment for SPAN was worked out, although normalizing all intervals to the octave between 8/7 and 16/7 is one expedient workaround.

    [from Carl Lumma, Onelist Tuning Digest 291, message 5]


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