Microtones

Definition

Microtones are musical intervals smaller than a semitone, which is the smallest interval used in Western music. In many musical traditions of the Middle East, microtones are essential for defining scales, modes, and melodies. These intervals allow for a rich palette of expressive possibilities and are foundational to the structure of maqams, as well as the tuning systems of various string instruments.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Microtones are not typically used in Western classical music, which relies on the 12-tone equal temperament system, making their use in Middle Eastern music distinctive.
2. In maqam theory, each maqam can incorporate specific microtonal intervals that help convey different emotional expressions and cultural meanings.
3. String instruments like the oud, qanun, and santur are designed to accommodate microtonal variations, allowing musicians to perform complex melodic lines.
4. Microtonal intervals can include quarter tones and other divisions that create unique modes and scales not found in Western music.
5. The use of microtones is also prevalent in Turkish makam music, which shares similarities with Arab maqam but has its own unique characteristics and theoretical foundations.

Review Questions

• How do microtones enhance the emotional expressiveness of maqams in Middle Eastern music?
  • Microtones play a crucial role in enhancing emotional expressiveness within maqams by allowing musicians to convey subtleties that standard Western semitones cannot. Each maqam is defined by its unique collection of notes and microtonal intervals, which contribute to the distinct mood or atmosphere associated with it. The flexibility offered by microtones enables performers to interpret melodies in a highly personal manner, leading to rich and varied emotional experiences for listeners.
• Discuss the importance of string instruments like the oud and qanun in relation to the use of microtones.
  • String instruments such as the oud and qanun are specifically designed to accommodate microtonal tuning systems, which are essential for performing Middle Eastern music accurately. The oud features frets that allow for precise placement of notes in between standard pitches, while the qanun has adjustable levers that enable players to access various microtonal intervals. This adaptability ensures that musicians can explore the full range of maqams and their expressive capabilities, making these instruments vital in the performance of microtonal music.
• Evaluate the relationship between the Turkish makam system and Arab maqam concerning their use of microtones.
  • The Turkish makam system and Arab maqam share similarities in their use of microtones but also exhibit key differences influenced by cultural context and musical practices. Both systems utilize microtonal intervals to create distinct scales and modes; however, Turkish makam incorporates additional nuances in its structure and melodic development. The relationship between these two systems highlights how cultural exchanges have shaped their evolution while maintaining unique characteristics that define their respective musical identities.

Related terms

Maqam: A maqam is a set of notes and a specific set of rules governing the melodic progression in Arabic music, often characterized by its use of microtones.

Quarter Tone: A quarter tone is an interval that divides a semitone into two equal parts, commonly used in Middle Eastern music to create distinct microtonal scales.

Tuning System: A tuning system refers to the specific method of dividing the octave into smaller intervals, crucial for the accurate representation of microtones in musical performance.