[2 min read] Ai gen Image: Pythagoras Have you ever been captivated by the sound of a sitar, or felt transported by the drone of a didgeridoo? These instruments, with their unique tunings, create a world of musical experiences beyond the familiar chords of Western music. Now, a new study throws a wrench into centuries-old theories of harmony, suggesting that our appreciation for pleasant sounds is shaped not just by math, but also by culture and the instruments we encounter. For ages, the idea that "consonance" – that pleasing blend of notes – stemmed from specific mathematical ratios (think 3:2 for a perfect fifth) dominated music theory. Pythagoras, the ancient Greek philosopher, even believed these ratios held the key to musical beauty. More recently, the focus shifted to psychology, but the mathematical foundation remained. However, researchers from Cambridge University, Princeton, and the Max Planck Institute for Empirical Aesthetics have upended this traditional view. Their groundbreaking study, published in Nature Communications, reveals two crucial ways in which our understanding of harmony needs a revision. Firstly, the study demonstrates that in everyday listening situations, we don't necessarily crave perfect mathematical ratios in chords. There's a degree of flexibility in our perception of consonance. Secondly, and perhaps more importantly, the study highlights the cultural influence on musical preference. The instruments we grow accustomed to – from the familiar piano to the exotic sitar – shape our perception of what sounds harmonious. This research opens doors for a more inclusive and adventurous approach to music. It encourages us to embrace the diverse soundscapes offered by different cultures and instruments, and perhaps even redefine what we consider "beautiful" in music. So, the next time you hear an unfamiliar melody, approach it with an open mind – it might just reshape your understanding of harmony! Editor. Cosmic Web Radio
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |
Click here to Listen Live
(or go to our homepage for Pop-Out Player)
www.cosmicwebradio.com Cosmic Web Radio
Archives
July 2024
Categories |