Quarter TonesOne particular branch of theoretical research that I have found to be infrequently explored and documented is that of quarter tone music theory, or the idea of how notes can function in a musical octave divided into twenty-four parts rather than the standard twelve which western music and theory is so well acquainted. Many cultures use scales that do not follow our twelve divisions to the octave, also known as 12-TET or 12-EDO, but rather a different division of spaces between the various notes. Some cultures use octaves with as little as five divisions and some composers have used upwards of sixty-three divisions.
My primary focus for the quarter tone portion of this site is to share and further develop my theory of quarter tones as well as to hopefully shed new light on what is otherwise seen as an 'out of tune' sounding temperament. The articles below lead to a specific section of the site that with more detail regarding that subject. Quarter Tone Theory
Quarter tones introduce many new possibilities with the addition of twelve new notes. Here is my attempt to categorize these new possibilities and results. I take a look at new notations as well as classifications and naming systems. read more ❯ Instruments
In an attempt to make quarter tones more accessible to other musicians I have taken familiar and not so familiar instruments and made them more readily capable of playing these new notes. I document my building processes and findings here. read more ❯ Article List
A listing of all the quarter tone articles and pages currently on the site with a brief description of each. view all articles ❯ |
