Basistöne

BasisTöne is a term used in German-language music theory and acoustics to refer to the foundational set of pitches that defines or characterizes a tonal system. The BasisTöne of a scale, tuning, or musical context are the tones from which the rest of the pitch content is derived or organized. They establish the harmonic and melodic framework and often serve as reference points for analysis, modulation, and composition.

In tuning and harmony, BasisTöne can be understood as the primary pitch classes that constitute a given system. In equal temperament, this may correspond to the diatonic or chromatic collections that underlie a key, while in just intonation or other tunings, the BasisTöne align with frequencies that have simple integer ratios. The choice of BasisTöne influences perceived stability, consonance, and the possible pathways for voice leading within that system.

The concept is sometimes extended to timbre analysis, where BasisTöne can refer to the principal spectral components that define a sound’s character. However, in this sense the term is less standardized and depends on the analytical framework used.

Example: in a C major context, the BasisTöne would typically include C, D, E, F, G, A, and B, with other notes described in relation to this basis. Across keys or modal systems, the BasisTöne shift accordingly to preserve the same functional role.

See also Grundtöne, Obertöne, Temperament, Tonalität. The term BasisTöne is a theoretical construct that varies in emphasis across authors and disciplines.