Meaning of Harmonic in Music
In music, a **harmonic** refers to a sound wave that has a frequency that is an integer multiple of a fundamental tone. The fundamental tone is the lowest frequency sound that can be produced, and the harmonics are the frequencies that are multiples of the fundamental tone.
For example, if the fundamental tone is C, then the second harmonic would be C in the next octave up, and the third harmonic would be G, an octave and a perfect fifth higher. The harmonics continue to increase in frequency, creating a series of pitches that are related to the fundamental tone.
Harmonics are produced by various musical instruments, including wind instruments. The volume at which different harmonics are produced can vary based on the instrument, the player, and the pitch. The combination of harmonics is what creates the unique timbre or tone quality of each instrument.
The concept of harmonics is not limited to music. It is also employed in various disciplines such as physics, acoustics, electronic power transmission, and radio technology. Harmonics play a crucial role in understanding the structure and function of chords, chord progressions, and melodies in music theory.
Overall, harmonics in music refer to the frequencies of pitches that vibrate in multiples of whole integers in comparison to a fundamental tone.
1. Term that refers to the combination of notes sounded simultaneously to produce chords (harmony) of a composition or performance. Music that has a distinguishable or pleasing harmony, or music that is performed in a manner that emphasizes the harmony in the most pleasing way possible.
2. A single partial in the overtone series that is generated by the fundamental of a pitch performed on a musical instrument.
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