In this Book
- Good Vibrations: The Physics of Music
- Book
- 2009
- Published by: Johns Hopkins University Press
summary
Why does a harpsichord sound different from a piano? For that matter, why does middle C on a piano differ from middle C on a tuning fork, a trombone, or a flute? Good Vibrations explains in clear, friendly language the out-of-sight physics responsible not only for these differences but also for the whole range of noises we call music.The physical properties and history of sound are fascinating to study. Barry Parker's tour of the physics of music details the science of how instruments, the acoustics of rooms, electronics, and humans create and alter the varied sounds we hear. Using physics as a base, Parker discusses the history of music, how sounds are made and perceived, and the various effects of acting on sounds. In the process, he demonstrates what acoustics can teach us about quantum theory and explains the relationship between harmonics and the theory of waves.Peppered throughout with anecdotes and examples illustrating key concepts, this invitingly written book provides a firm grounding in the actual and theoretical physics of music.
Table of Contents
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- Acknowledgments
- p. vii
- Introduction
- pp. 1-10
- I: Sound and Sound Waves
- 1. Making Music: How Sound Is Made
- pp. 13-27
- 2. The Sound of Music: Perception
- pp. 28-40
- 3. Good Vibes: Waves in Motion
- pp. 41-58
- II: The Building Blocks of Music
- 5. The Well-Tempered Scale
- pp. 77-92
- III: Musical Instruments
- 8. Why a Piano Is Not a Harpsichord
- pp. 131-145
- 11. The Woodwinds: Clarinet and Saxophone
- pp. 179-188
- IV: New Technologies and Acoustics
- 13. Electronic Music
- pp. 211-226
- 14. Making a MIDI Recording
- pp. 227-243
- Suggested Readings
- pp. 267-268
Additional Information
ISBN
9780801897078
Related ISBN(s)
9780801892646
MARC Record
OCLC
826514925
Pages
288
Launched on MUSE
2012-01-01
Language
English
Open Access
No