Just intonation

Definition

Just intonation is a system of tuning that uses the natural harmonic series to create intervals based on whole number ratios. This method allows for the formation of pure-sounding chords and scales, which can be particularly appealing in various styles of music. In the realm of contemporary American classical music, just intonation offers composers an alternative to equal temperament, allowing for more expressive possibilities and a deeper exploration of microtonality.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Just intonation is often used in vocal music and by string players who can adjust their pitch to achieve perfect intervals.
2. Composers like Harry Partch and La Monte Young have incorporated just intonation into their works to explore unique sonic textures and emotional depth.
3. The use of just intonation can create tuning conflicts when musicians attempt to play together if they are not using the same tuning system.
4. In just intonation, the interval of a perfect fifth is typically tuned to a frequency ratio of 3:2, which creates a more consonant sound than in equal temperament.
5. Contemporary classical music often challenges traditional Western tonal structures, making just intonation a valuable tool for innovative composers seeking new musical landscapes.

Review Questions

• How does just intonation differ from equal temperament in terms of tuning and sound quality?
  • Just intonation differs from equal temperament in that it is based on pure intervals derived from the harmonic series, while equal temperament divides the octave into 12 equal parts. This means that just intonation produces intervals that sound more consonant and pleasing, particularly in certain contexts like vocal and string music. However, equal temperament allows for easier modulation between keys, which can lead to practical advantages in ensemble playing.
• What role does microtonality play in the practice of just intonation within contemporary American classical music?
  • Microtonality plays a significant role in just intonation by allowing composers to use intervals smaller than the traditional semitone. This expands the palette of sounds available and enables musicians to create more nuanced expressions. In contemporary American classical music, this practice often leads to new forms of musical language and pushes boundaries in harmonic exploration, inviting audiences to experience sound in ways that deviate from conventional tuning systems.
• Evaluate the impact of just intonation on the compositional techniques and sonic possibilities available to contemporary American classical composers.
  • The impact of just intonation on contemporary American classical composers is profound, as it opens up a wealth of compositional techniques that challenge traditional Western harmony. Composers can manipulate pitches and harmonies based on natural ratios, creating unique textures and emotional resonances. This approach allows for innovative use of silence, dissonance, and microtonal shifts, encouraging listeners to engage with sound on a deeper level and expanding the overall language of music beyond established norms.

Related terms

Equal Temperament: A tuning system that divides the octave into 12 equal parts, allowing instruments to play in any key with consistent intervals.

Microtonality: The use of intervals smaller than a semitone, which expands the range of musical expression beyond traditional Western tuning systems.

Harmonic Series: A sequence of sounds where each frequency is a whole number multiple of a fundamental frequency, forming the basis for just intonation.