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Semitone Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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semitone

[หˆsษ›mษชtoสŠn ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

music theory

A semitone is the smallest musical interval commonly used in Western music, equal to one twelfth of an octave. It is the interval between two adjacent keys on a piano keyboard, such as C and C#, or E and F. Semitones are essential for constructing scales and chords, creating melodies, and enhancing musical expression. This interval helps to define the tonal structure of music and is crucial in modulation between different keys.

Synonyms

half step, minor second.

Examples of usage

  • The distance between E and F is a semitone.
  • In this scale, every second note is a semitone apart.
  • You can hear the difference in pitch between a whole tone and a semitone.
  • The chromatic scale consists entirely of semitones.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Music Theory

  • In Western music, a semitone is the interval between two adjacent keys on a pianoโ€”like from C to C sharp.
  • There are 12 semitones in an octave, which is the distance you need to travel to return to the same note name.
  • Musicians often use semitones to create scales and chords, which are the building blocks of songs.

Cultural Significance

  • Many cultures have unique interpretations of musical intervals, giving semitones different emotional meanings.
  • In Indian classical music, a 'shrutis' concept divides the octave into 22 microtones, expanding on the semitone idea.
  • Jazz musicians often utilize semitones to achieve complex harmonies that make the music sound rich and intricate.

Historical Context

  • The concept of semitones dates back to ancient Greece, where music was tied to mathematics and philosophy.
  • The equal temperament tuning system, developed in the 18th century, standardized the semitone for better harmony among instruments.
  • Different musical traditions historically used varying systems of tuning, some recognizing more than just the semitone.

Science of Sound

  • A semitone corresponds to a frequency ratio of approximately 1.059, allowing musicians to navigate pitch with precision.
  • In acoustics, moving a semitone alters the sound wave frequency, affecting how we perceive music.
  • The study of semitones has led to advancements in music technology, including synthesizers that can create an infinite range of tones.

Educational Use

  • Learning about semitones can help music students understand musical scales and improve their ear training.
  • Teachers often use semitones in exercises to develop a student's ability to recognize and produce different pitches.
  • Many music theory books include exercises specifically designed around semitones to strengthen composition skills.

Origin of 'semitone'

The term 'semitone' originates from the Medieval Latin word 'semitonus', which is a combination of 'semi-', meaning half, and 'tonus', meaning tone. This reflects its nature as half of a whole tone, a fundamental concept in music theory that was developed during the Middle Ages. As musical notation and theory became more sophisticated in Europe, the concept of the semitone was formalized, particularly during the Renaissance. The semitone plays a crucial role in the development of music scales and harmony, and its understanding has been integral for composers and musicians throughout history. The term has since been adopted globally in various music traditions, signifying its universal importance in the study of music.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #31,511 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.