Good Vibrations: The Physics of Music
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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.
Introduction 1I Sound and Sound Waves1 Making Music: How Sound Is Made 132 The Sound of Music: Perception 283 Good Vibes: Waves in Motion 41II The Building Blocks of Music4 Making Music Beautiful: Complex Musical Tones 615 The Well-Tempered Scale 776 Down Melody Lane with Chords and Chord Sequences 937 "You've Gotta Have Rhythm": Rhythm and Types of Music 109III Musical Instruments8 Why a Piano Is Not a Harpsichord 1319 The Stringed Instruments: Making Music with the Violin and the Guitar 14610 The Brass Instruments: Trumpet and Trombone 16511 The Woodwinds: Clarinet and Saxophone 17912 The Most Versatile Instrument: The Singing Voice 189IV New Technologies and Acoustics13 Electronic Music 21114 Making a MIDI Recording 22715 The Acoustics of Concert Halls and Studios 244Epilogue 259Suggested Readings 267Index 269
