The Arts

Computational modeling of interval distributions in tonal space reveals paradigmatic stylistic changes in Western music history

F. C. Moss, R. Lieck, et al.

Explore the intricate world of tonal intervals in Western music through a computational model developed by Fabian C. Moss, Robert Lieck, and Martin Rohrmeier. This research highlights the evolution of tonal complexity over centuries, showcasing how the perfect fifth paved the way for a notable rise in major and minor thirds during the 19th century, marking a pivotal shift in musical tonality.

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Abstract

This study uses a computational model to analyze tonal interval distributions in a large corpus of Western music. The model, based on music-theoretic concepts of tonal space, reveals that tonal interval relations become increasingly complex over time. The perfect fifth dominates compositions for centuries, but there's a significant increase in the use of major and minor thirds during the 19th century, coinciding with the emergence of extended tonality. This quantitative analysis complements existing research on the historical evolution of tonality.

Publisher

Humanities and Social Sciences Communications

Published On

May 28, 2024

Authors

Fabian C. Moss, Robert Lieck, Martin Rohrmeier

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