THE MEASUREMENT OF VOCALIC AND TONAL CONTEXTS.

Abstract

A mathematical model has been developed that defines a collection of sets each of which can be used to 'measure' the distance between any pair of a given finite set of points in such manner that the distance, as defined by a procedure for counting points on the measuring set, is invariant under translation of such measuring set. A circular model has been applied to the perception of tones in context, and a 'Gestalt' theory of perception results from the interpretation. Predictions suitable for experimental verification or refutation of the model are provided by the results of computations performed. These results are in accord with the musical materials and practices of all the cultures thus far examined. Previously unexplained peculiarities of Balinese music are accounted for. Discrepancies between Indian musical theory and practice are explained. Examination of other non-Western musical cultures lends further support to the theory.

Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Dec 01, 1964
Accession Number
AD0610597

Entities

Organizations

  • New York University

Tags

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Computations
  • Materials
  • Mathematical Models
  • Measurement
  • Models
  • Perception
  • Translations
  • Verification

Readers

  • Graph Algorithms and Convex Optimization.
  • Speech Processing/Speech Recognition.
  • Systems Analysis and Design