Re: A theoretical question


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Posted by Mike F. on October 30, 2000 at 12:58:26:

In Reply to: A theoretical question posted by Mario on October 30, 2000 at 09:05:50:

Hi Mario, the answer lies in the "overtone series" which Tim mentioned. This is the natural series of notes which can be played through the same length of tube (or string, or wooden bar etc.). The series is, starting on the lowest pedal note for a particular fingering and ascending: Fundamental, Octave above, Fitht, octave, third, fifth, flat seventh, and octave. Beyond that the notes are even closer together. Using F tuba as example, and starting on the pedal F, your open notes are: F, F, C, F, A, C, Eb (out of tune) and finally the F above the staff. Starting on pedal C (first and third valves) your series of notes is: C, C, G, C, E, G, Bb(+) and C on top of the staff. With me so far? Every fingering combination has this series of notes, and when you get high enough where the notes in the series are closer together, more notes can be fingered with different combinations. Lets try Ab: (2,3) Ab, Ab, Eb, Ab, C, Eb, Gb(+) and Ab. So already the C in the staff can be played three different ways! Work this out with different fingering combinations, low to high, and see how many you can come up with.
Good Luck!
Mike F.


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