Just intonation

Definition

Just intonation is a musical tuning system that relies on the natural harmonic relationships between pitches, creating intervals based on whole number ratios. This system contrasts with equal temperament, which divides the octave into equal parts, resulting in slightly altered intervals. The use of just intonation has historical roots in medieval music and has influenced how modern performance practices interpret early music.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Just intonation is rooted in the principles of harmonic overtones and was widely used during the medieval period for vocal and instrumental music.
2. The intervals in just intonation can be more consonant than those found in equal temperament, often leading to a warmer and richer sound in performances.
3. Musicians who aim to perform medieval music authentically may prefer just intonation to reflect the historical tuning practices of that time.
4. The revival of interest in just intonation has led to a resurgence of using historical instruments and methods that adhere to these tuning principles.
5. Some modern composers and performers experiment with just intonation to create unique soundscapes that differ from conventional Western music.

Review Questions

• How does just intonation differ from equal temperament, and why is this distinction important for understanding medieval music?
  • Just intonation differs from equal temperament primarily in its approach to tuning intervals based on whole number ratios rather than equal divisions of the octave. This distinction is vital for understanding medieval music because many compositions from that era were created within the framework of just intonation, resulting in a purity of sound that reflects the harmonic relationships found in nature. Recognizing these differences helps musicians and scholars appreciate the authentic performance practices that characterize medieval music.
• What role did just intonation play in shaping the performance practices during the medieval music revival, particularly concerning historical accuracy?
  • During the medieval music revival, just intonation played a crucial role in shaping performance practices aimed at historical accuracy. Musicians sought to recreate the soundscapes of the past by using tuning systems that reflected the harmonic principles of medieval composers. This commitment to authenticity often involved employing just intonation, which allowed performers to capture the essence of early music, as it was originally intended. This focus on historical fidelity led to greater appreciation for how musical intervals and harmonies can impact the emotional and aesthetic experience of medieval works.
• Evaluate the impact of just intonation on contemporary music performance and composition, considering its historical significance and modern adaptations.
  • Just intonation's impact on contemporary music performance and composition is significant as it encourages musicians to explore alternative tuning systems beyond traditional equal temperament. Its historical significance provides a foundation for understanding harmony and interval relationships that can enrich modern compositions. As musicians adapt just intonation into their work, they create unique sonic experiences that challenge conventional perceptions of pitch and harmony. This blend of historical practice and modern interpretation fosters innovation within various musical genres while honoring the legacy of medieval music.

Related terms

Equal temperament: A tuning system that divides the octave into 12 equal parts, allowing for flexibility in key changes but resulting in less pure intervals compared to just intonation.

Pythagorean tuning: A tuning system based on the ratio of 3:2 for perfect fifths, which is one of the foundations of just intonation, emphasizing harmonic relationships.

Harmonic series: A sequence of sounds in which the frequency of each sound is an integer multiple of the fundamental frequency, providing the basis for just intonation's interval relationships.