Just intonation is a method of tuning musical instruments that produces a more harmonious and natural sound. Unlike equal temperament, which divides the octave into equal intervals, just intonation uses ratios of small integers to create intervals that are more in tune with the natural harmonics of the instrument. This results in a more complex and nuanced sound that is closer to the way the human ear perceives music. In this article, we will explore the various instruments that use just intonation and the techniques used to tune them. From pianos to guitars, we will discover how these instruments produce their unique sounds and how just intonation plays a crucial role in their music.
What is Just Intonation?
Definition and Principles
Just intonation is a tuning system that differs from the equal temperament system used in most Western music. It is based on the principles of harmonic and arithmetic ratios, where the frequencies of the notes are derived from whole numbers. In just intonation, each note has a distinct and pure tone, creating a more natural and harmonious sound. The system is based on the overtone series, which is the sequence of frequencies produced by a vibrating string or column of air. In just intonation, the frequency ratios of the notes are determined by the natural harmonic series, which is the sequence of whole numbers that represent the harmonic ratios of the frequencies. This results in a more complex and nuanced tuning system that allows for greater accuracy and expressiveness in music.
History and Evolution
The concept of Just Intonation dates back to ancient civilizations such as the Greeks and Chinese, who were known to have developed musical systems based on harmonic ratios. These ratios formed the basis of tuning systems that were used in the construction of musical instruments. Over time, the development of the equal temperament tuning system, which divides the octave into twelve equal parts, became the standard for Western music. However, the just intonation tuning system, which seeks to align the harmonic ratios more closely to their true values, has experienced a resurgence in recent years. This has led to renewed interest in the history and evolution of just intonation, as well as the development of new instruments and tuning techniques.
Instruments that Use Just Intonation
Acoustic Instruments
Just intonation is not limited to electronic instruments, but also has a rich history in acoustic instruments. Many traditional instruments, such as the violin, cello, and guitar, can be tuned using just intonation.
One of the earliest known instruments to use just intonation was the monochord, a simple stringed instrument that was used in Europe during the Renaissance period. The monochord was a single string that was stretched across a soundboard and plucked with the fingers. By adjusting the length of the string, the monochord could produce a range of harmonious intervals.
Another example of an acoustic instrument that uses just intonation is the hammered dulcimer. This instrument has a trapezoidal soundboard and a series of metal tines that are struck with small hammers. The tines are tuned to specific frequencies, creating a rich and complex sound that is characteristic of just intonation.
In addition to these traditional instruments, there are also a number of modern acoustic instruments that use just intonation. For example, the steelpan, a musical instrument originating from Trinidad and Tobago, is traditionally tuned using just intonation. The steelpan is made from a shallow metal bowl and is played with sticks or hands. The unique sound of the steelpan is due in part to its use of just intonation.
Overall, just intonation has played a significant role in the development of many acoustic instruments. Its ability to produce harmonious intervals and complex sounds has made it a popular choice among instrument makers and musicians alike.
Electronic Instruments
Electronic instruments are a popular choice for musicians looking to explore the world of just intonation. With the ability to manipulate digital sound waves, electronic instruments can be programmed to produce a wide range of tones and tunings. Here are some examples of electronic instruments that use just intonation:
- Synthesizers: Synthesizers are electronic instruments that generate sounds using digital signals. They can be programmed to produce a wide range of tones and tunings, including just intonation. Many modern synthesizers come with pre-programmed just intonation settings, making it easy for musicians to experiment with this unique tuning system.
- Digital Audio Workstations (DAWs): DAWs are software programs that allow musicians to create, record, and edit digital audio. They can be used to create just intonation tunings by manipulating the pitch of individual audio samples. Many DAWs come with built-in just intonation presets, making it easy for musicians to incorporate this tuning system into their music.
- Samplers: Samplers are electronic instruments that allow musicians to record and play back sounds from external sources. They can be programmed to produce just intonation tunings by manipulating the pitch of the recorded samples. Many modern samplers come with pre-programmed just intonation settings, making it easy for musicians to experiment with this unique tuning system.
Overall, electronic instruments offer a wide range of possibilities for musicians looking to explore just intonation. With their ability to manipulate digital sound waves, electronic instruments can produce a wide range of tones and tunings, including just intonation. Whether you’re a producer, composer, or performer, electronic instruments can help you bring your just intonation ideas to life.
Tuning Techniques for Just Intonation
Piano Tuning
Piano tuning is a crucial aspect of just intonation, as the piano is one of the most widely used instruments in Western classical music. In just intonation, the piano’s strings are tuned to produce intervals that are in harmony with the overtone series, resulting in a more harmonious and natural sound.
The process of tuning a piano for just intonation involves adjusting the strings’ tension and length to achieve the desired pitches. This can be done by using a specialized tuning hammer to adjust the tension of the strings, or by using a specialized tool to lengthen or shorten the strings.
One of the key aspects of just intonation piano tuning is the use of “beats.” Beats are the slight fluctuations in pitch that occur when two notes are played together, and they can be used to help fine-tune the piano’s strings. By adjusting the tension and length of the strings, the beats can be minimized, resulting in a more stable and harmonious sound.
Another important aspect of just intonation piano tuning is the use of “temperament.” Temperament refers to the way in which the piano’s keys are arranged and tuned to produce a specific range of pitches. In just intonation, the temperament is designed to ensure that the intervals between the keys are in harmony with the overtone series, resulting in a more natural and harmonious sound.
Overall, piano tuning for just intonation requires a high degree of skill and expertise, as the slightest adjustment can have a significant impact on the instrument’s sound. However, with the right tools and techniques, it is possible to achieve a beautiful and harmonious sound that is in tune with the natural harmonics of the instrument.
String Instrument Tuning
String instruments such as violins, cellos, and violas can be tuned using just intonation. This technique involves adjusting the strings to specific frequencies to achieve the desired pitch. Here are some steps to follow when tuning a string instrument for just intonation:
- Start by tuning the open strings to their respective pitches. For example, the G string should be tuned to G4 (392 Hz), the D string to D4 (293 Hz), the A string to A4 (440 Hz), and the E string to E5 (659 Hz).
- Use a tuner or a pitch pipe to check the accuracy of each string’s pitch. If necessary, adjust the tuning pegs to fine-tune the strings until they reach the correct frequency.
- Once the open strings are in tune, play each string and adjust the corresponding tuning peg to bring the note into tune. This process may require some trial and error, as the frequency of the note will change depending on the vibrato or other techniques used while playing.
- Repeat the process for each string until all of them are in tune with each other and with the desired pitch.
It’s important to note that tuning a string instrument for just intonation can be challenging and may require a skilled technician or luthier to make any necessary adjustments to the instrument itself. Additionally, the exact tuning process may vary depending on the type of instrument and the desired tuning system. However, with practice and patience, string players can achieve beautiful and expressive performances using just intonation.
Woodwind and Brass Instrument Tuning
Woodwind and brass instruments are particularly challenging to tune for just intonation due to their complex construction and the fact that they are typically designed to be played in equal temperament. However, with careful attention to detail and a willingness to experiment, it is possible to achieve a high degree of accuracy in the tuning of these instruments for just intonation.
One approach to tuning woodwind and brass instruments for just intonation is to use a specialized tuning device, such as a Pitch Pipe or a Tuning Fork, to help ensure that the instrument is accurately tuned to the correct pitch. These devices can be used to help the musician identify the correct pitch and to make small adjustments to the instrument’s tuning as needed.
Another approach is to use a specialized tuning method, such as the “Just Intonation” method, which involves using a specific mathematical formula to calculate the correct pitch for each note. This method requires a high degree of precision and attention to detail, but can result in a more accurate and satisfying tuning for just intonation.
It is also important to consider the specific construction of the instrument when tuning for just intonation. For example, some woodwind and brass instruments have adjustable keys or valves that can be used to make small adjustments to the instrument’s tuning. Other instruments may require more extensive modifications, such as the addition of a specialized mechanism or the use of a different type of material for the instrument’s construction.
Ultimately, the key to successfully tuning woodwind and brass instruments for just intonation is to be patient, precise, and willing to experiment with different techniques and approaches. With time and practice, it is possible to achieve a high degree of accuracy and satisfaction in the tuning of these instruments for just intonation.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Just Intonation
Improved Harmonic Relationships
One of the key advantages of just intonation is the improved harmonic relationships between notes. In equal temperament, notes are tuned to a fixed frequency ratio, regardless of their place in the scale. This can result in a lack of harmonic clarity and tension between notes. In just intonation, each note is tuned to its natural frequency ratio, resulting in a more accurate representation of the harmonic series. This can create a more cohesive and resonant sound, with a greater sense of harmonic clarity and tension between notes. Additionally, just intonation allows for more complex harmonies and chord progressions, as well as a greater expressiveness in melodic lines. However, it is important to note that just intonation is not without its challenges, and there are also some potential disadvantages to consider.
Challenges in Performance and Composition
- Limited range of notes: One of the primary challenges in performance and composition is the limited range of notes that can be played or composed using just intonation. This is because just intonation requires that each note be tuned to a specific frequency, which means that the range of notes that can be played or composed is limited by the number of available frequencies.
- Difficulty in matching pitch: Another challenge in performance and composition is the difficulty in matching pitch. In just intonation, each note has a specific frequency, which means that it can be difficult to match the pitch of one note to another. This can make it challenging for musicians to play in harmony with one another and can also make it difficult for composers to create complex harmonies.
- Complexity in composition: Composing music in just intonation can be complex and requires a deep understanding of the tuning system. This is because just intonation requires that each note be tuned to a specific frequency, which means that composers must take into account the specific frequencies of each note when composing. This can make it challenging to create complex harmonies and melodies, as well as to ensure that the music sounds harmonious and pleasing to the ear.
- Lack of standardization: The lack of standardization in just intonation can also pose challenges in performance and composition. Because just intonation requires that each note be tuned to a specific frequency, there is no standardized tuning system that all musicians can follow. This means that musicians must be skilled in tuning their instruments to the specific frequencies required for just intonation, which can be challenging and time-consuming.
- Incompatibility with some instruments: Some instruments, such as the piano, are not well-suited to just intonation because they are designed to produce a specific range of notes at specific frequencies. This means that musicians must be skilled in tuning these instruments to the specific frequencies required for just intonation, which can be challenging and time-consuming.
- Difficulty in maintaining tuning: Finally, just intonation can be challenging to maintain during performance. Because each note is tuned to a specific frequency, even slight changes in temperature or humidity can cause the notes to go out of tune. This can make it challenging for musicians to maintain the correct tuning throughout a performance, particularly in large ensembles where multiple instruments are being played.
Exploring Different Approaches to Just Intonation
Microtonal Tunings
Microtonal tunings refer to tuning systems that utilize intervals smaller than a whole step or half step. These tunings offer a broader range of tones and intervals, providing more opportunities for expression and experimentation in music. Here are some common microtonal tunings and their characteristics:
Pythagorean Tuning
Pythagorean tuning is based on the ratio 2:1, which is the same as the interval between the first and fourth harmonics of a string. This tuning produces a distinct sound, with a slightly flattened fifth and major third. It was favored by early Baroque composers, such as Bach, who used it in various pieces.
Meantone Tuning
Meantone tuning is characterized by a more evenly spaced set of intervals, making it easier to play in all keys. It is based on the division of the octave into 12 equal parts, each represented by a tempered interval. This tuning was commonly used in the late Baroque period and is still used in some organs today.
Equal Temperament Tuning
Equal temperament tuning divides the octave into 12 equal intervals, each represented by a perfect fifth. This tuning system allows for easier transposition and a more consistent intonation across the entire range of the instrument. It is widely used in modern music and is the standard tuning system for most Western instruments.
Extended Just Intonation
Extended just intonation involves the use of additional intervals beyond the 12-tone equal temperament scale. These intervals are chosen based on their mathematical relationships to each other, providing a more natural and expressive sound. This tuning system is used in some contemporary music and is often associated with the works of Harry Partch and other experimental composers.
In conclusion, microtonal tunings offer a broader range of tones and intervals, providing more opportunities for expression and experimentation in music. From Pythagorean tuning to extended just intonation, each tuning system has its unique characteristics and can be used to create a distinct sound and atmosphere in various musical contexts.
Alternate Tunings for Electric Guitar and Bass
Just intonation offers a variety of alternate tunings for electric guitar and bass, providing a broader range of sound possibilities. Here are some popular tunings that are used to achieve just intonation on these instruments:
Pythagorean tuning is based on the mathematical ratio of 2:1, where the second harmonic is twice the frequency of the first harmonic. This tuning produces a rich and harmonious sound, with intervals that are very close to the ratios found in nature. Some guitarists use this tuning to play chords and melodies that are more in tune with the natural world.
Meantone tuning is a system of tuning that was developed in the 16th century, and it is based on the concept of a “meantone” or “wolf tone” that is used to provide a consistent interval structure across the range of the instrument. This tuning is particularly useful for playing baroque music, as it allows for more accurate intonation of the major and minor thirds, which are crucial to the harmony of that period.
12-Tone Equal Temperament
12-tone equal temperament is a standard tuning system that divides the octave into 12 equal intervals. This tuning is commonly used in classical music and is designed to provide a more even distribution of intervals across the range of the instrument. While this tuning does not produce perfect just intervals, it allows for greater flexibility in playing a wide range of musical styles.
Extended Tunings
Some guitarists and bassists also experiment with extended tunings, which involve tuning the strings to different notes outside of the standard tuning. These tunings can produce unique and otherworldly sounds, and they can be used to explore new sonic territories. Some popular extended tunings include drop D, open G, and open D tunings, which are commonly used in rock and blues music.
In conclusion, just intonation offers a variety of alternate tunings for electric guitar and bass, each with its own unique sound and character. By exploring these tunings, musicians can expand their sonic palette and discover new possibilities for musical expression.
Extended Techniques for Percussion
Extended techniques for percussion are a crucial aspect of exploring just intonation. These techniques involve using non-traditional methods to produce sound from percussion instruments, such as drums and cymbals. One of the most well-known extended techniques for percussion is the use of bowed cymbals.
Bowed Cymbals
Bowed cymbals involve using a bow to play the cymbal, creating a sustained, rich sound. This technique can be used to produce microtones, or notes that are not part of the standard Western musical tuning system. To create microtones using bowed cymbals, the performer must adjust the angle and pressure of the bow, as well as the placement of the bow on the cymbal.
Other Extended Techniques
Other extended techniques for percussion include the use of non-standard instruments, such as found objects or homemade instruments. These instruments can be tuned to specific just intonation intervals, allowing for a wider range of sounds and possibilities in the music. Additionally, performers can use electronic triggers and effects to manipulate the sound of the percussion instruments, further expanding the range of just intonation possibilities.
Importance of Extended Techniques
Extended techniques for percussion are important in the exploration of just intonation because they allow for the creation of new and unique sounds. By using non-standard instruments and techniques, performers can create music that is more expressive and emotionally impactful. Additionally, extended techniques for percussion can help to bridge the gap between classical and experimental music, making just intonation more accessible to a wider audience.
Recap of Key Points
In this section, we will review the key points discussed so far regarding different approaches to just intonation. We will explore the advantages and disadvantages of each approach and how they relate to various musical genres and styles.
Pure Just Intonation
- Pure just intonation involves using a tuning system based on the harmonic series, resulting in intervals that are not divided equally.
- The main advantage of pure just intonation is that it provides a more accurate representation of the natural harmonic series, resulting in a more “natural” sound.
- However, pure just intonation can be challenging to play on standard instruments, and it can be difficult to achieve precise intonation when playing in different keys.
Mixed Just Intonation
- Mixed just intonation involves using a combination of pure just intervals and equal temperament intervals to create a more practical and versatile tuning system.
- The main advantage of mixed just intonation is that it allows for more precise intonation and easier transposition than pure just intonation.
- However, mixed just intonation can result in a less “natural” sound than pure just intonation, as some intervals may be slightly altered to fit within the tuning system.
Microtonal Just Intonation
- Microtonal just intonation involves using a tuning system that includes intervals smaller than a half-step, resulting in a wider range of pitches and a more nuanced expression of tone color.
- The main advantage of microtonal just intonation is that it allows for a greater degree of expressiveness and precision in tone color and intonation.
- However, microtonal just intonation can be challenging to perform on standard instruments and may require specialized instruments or tuning devices.
Electric and Electronic Instruments
- Electric and electronic instruments can be used to explore just intonation more easily than acoustic instruments, as they can be programmed to produce specific tunings and intervals.
- The main advantage of using electric and electronic instruments for just intonation is that they allow for greater precision and versatility in tuning and intonation.
- However, electric and electronic instruments may not provide the same level of expressiveness and nuance as acoustic instruments, and they may require specialized knowledge and skills to program and manipulate.
In conclusion, exploring different approaches to just intonation can provide a deeper understanding of the complex relationship between pitch and tonality in music. By examining the advantages and disadvantages of each approach, we can gain insight into the various ways that just intonation can be used to enhance musical expression and creativity.
The Future of Just Intonation in Music
As the understanding and appreciation of just intonation continues to grow, so does its presence in the world of music. Many musicians and music theorists believe that just intonation has the potential to revolutionize the way we think about and create music.
Integration into Traditional Instruments
One of the most significant developments in the future of just intonation is its integration into traditional instruments. This has been made possible through advancements in technology and the development of new tools and techniques. For example, some pianos are now being built with extra keys and pedals to allow for just intonation tuning. Similarly, violins and other stringed instruments can be retuned to play in just intonation.
New Instruments and Technologies
In addition to the integration of just intonation into traditional instruments, there is also a growing interest in the creation of new instruments specifically designed for just intonation. These instruments are often based on ancient tuning systems and are capable of producing unique and complex harmonies. Examples include the hydraulis, a type of organ that uses water to produce sound, and the syntonic keyboard, a type of keyboard instrument that uses a specialized tuning system.
The Role of Computers and Technology
Computers and technology have also played a significant role in the future of just intonation in music. Software programs and algorithms can now be used to create and manipulate just intonation tunings, making it easier for musicians to explore and experiment with this tuning system. Additionally, new technologies such as 3D printing and CNC machining have made it possible to create custom instruments and tuning systems with greater precision and accuracy.
Collaboration and Experimentation
Finally, the future of just intonation in music is likely to involve increased collaboration and experimentation among musicians, composers, and music theorists. As more people become interested in just intonation, there will be a greater need for musicians who are skilled in this tuning system to collaborate on new projects and develop new music. Additionally, composers and music theorists will continue to explore the possibilities of just intonation and how it can be used to create new and innovative music.
Overall, the future of just intonation in music is an exciting and rapidly evolving field. As more musicians and music theorists become interested in this tuning system, it is likely that we will see a growing presence of just intonation in the world of music, and the development of new instruments, technologies, and musical styles.
FAQs
1. What is just intonation?
Just intonation is a method of tuning musical instruments in which the frequencies of the notes are determined by the harmonic ratios of whole numbers. This creates a more harmonious and natural sounding tuning system, as opposed to equal temperament, which is used in most modern instruments.
2. What instruments use just intonation?
Many early musical instruments, such as harpsichords, lutes, and organs, were tuned using just intonation. In modern times, some musicians and instrument makers have returned to using just intonation, particularly in the genres of classical, experimental, and avant-garde music.
3. How is just intonation different from equal temperament?
In equal temperament, the frequencies of the notes are chosen so that the intervals between them are equal, resulting in a consistent and uniform tuning system. In just intonation, the frequencies are chosen based on the harmonic ratios of whole numbers, resulting in a more natural and harmonious sound.
4. Is just intonation difficult to use?
Just intonation can be more difficult to use than equal temperament, as it requires more precise tuning and adjustment of the instrument. However, with practice and experience, many musicians find that it is worth the effort for the unique and beautiful sound it produces.
5. Can I use just intonation on my instrument?
It is possible to use just intonation on many modern instruments, such as guitars and keyboards, with the help of specialized tuning devices or software. However, it may require some adjustment and experimentation to achieve the desired results. It is also important to note that some instruments, such as the piano, are not well-suited to just intonation due to their design and construction.
