The Meaning and History of "Schisma"
A Musical and Etymological Exploration
Definition and Etymology
The term "schisma" refers to a specific musical interval, namely the difference between a pure fifth, as defined by the ratio of frequencies 3:2, and its corresponding tempered fifth, which is slightly smaller. The term originated from the Greek word "schisma," meaning "a split" or "a division," as it represents a small interval that divides the octave into uneven parts.
Musical Significance
In music theory, the schisma plays a significant role in the tuning and intonation of musical instruments. The tempered fifth, which is commonly used in Western music, is defined as being 700 cents wide, while the pure fifth is 702 cents wide. The schisma is thus the difference between these two intervals, representing roughly 2 cents. This seemingly small difference can have a noticeable effect on the overall sound and harmony of music.
Historical Usage
The term "schisma" has been used in music theory since at least the mid-18th century. In the 1760s, the French musician Jean-Philippe Rameau wrote about the schisma in his treatise "Génération Harmonique," where he defined it as the difference between a pure fifth and a "tempered" fifth. The term continued to be used by other music theorists and composers throughout the 19th and 20th centuries.
Conclusion
The schisma, while a relatively small musical interval, holds significant meaning in both the theory and practice of music. It represents the tension between the pure and tempered intervals, and its understanding is essential for accurate tuning and intonation. Whether in the context of historical treatises or modern music theory, the schisma continues to be an important concept that shapes our perception and understanding of musical sound.
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