How Do You Spell MICROTONAL?

Pronunciation: [mˈa͡ɪkɹə͡ʊtˌə͡ʊnə͡l] (IPA)

The word "microtonal" spells out as /ˌmaɪkroʊˈtoʊnəl/, with the stress placed on the second syllable. The first part, "micro," is pronounced as /ˈmaɪkroʊ/, and it refers to something that is small or minute. The second part, "tonal," is pronounced as /ˈtoʊnəl/, and it relates to musical tones or sound. "Microtonal," therefore, refers to a system of music that uses intervals smaller than the traditional twelve-tone Western system. This spelling accurately reflects the word's meaning and pronunciation.

MICROTONAL Meaning and Definition

1. Microtonal is an adjective that refers to a system of musical tuning or composition that goes beyond the standard division of the octave into twelve equal intervals or semitones. It encompasses any music or technique that utilizes smaller intervals, or "microtones," that fall between these traditional Western notes.

   In microtonal music, the octave is typically divided into more than twelve pitches per octave, allowing for a finer gradation of tonal possibilities. These microtones can be found in various musical cultures across the world, such as the Indian classical music (with its concept of shrutis) and the Arabic maqamat system. They offer composers and performers a wide palette of nuanced tones and pitches, which can result in more intricate and expressive musical textures.

   Microtonal music challenges the conventional Western tonal system and opens up new sonic territory, often expanding the range of emotional and expressive possibilities in music. Composers and musicians who employ microtonal techniques may use specially designed instruments with extra frets or keys to accommodate the additional pitches, or they may manipulate the sound electronically using synthesizers or computer software.

   Overall, microtonal music offers a departure from the rigid structure of twelve-tone equal temperament, inviting exploration of the vast potential for sonic diversity and pushing the boundaries of what is considered musically possible within the realm of pitch and tonality.

Common Misspellings for MICROTONAL

• microsemal
• microtona

Etymology of MICROTONAL

The word "microtonal" is derived from two Greek roots: "micro" meaning small or minute, and "tonal" referring to tones or sound. The combination of these roots gives "microtonal", which describes a system of music that uses intervals smaller than the traditional semitones of standard Western music. The term was first used in the late 19th century to describe music that explored these smaller intervals outside of the conventional 12-tone equal temperament system.