Sävelvälisten

Sävelvälisten is a Finnish term that translates to "between notes" or "intervallic" in English. It refers to the concept of microtonality in music, specifically the pitches that lie between the standard semitones of Western music. While Western music traditionally divides the octave into twelve equal semitones, many other musical traditions and contemporary composers utilize smaller intervals.

The concept of sävelvälisten acknowledges and incorporates these finer gradations of pitch. This can involve dividing the octave into more than twelve parts, or using intervals that are not derived from a twelve-tone equal temperament system. Historically, various tuning systems have employed intervals smaller than a semitone, and the study and application of these microtonal possibilities are central to the understanding of sävelvälisten.

In contemporary music, composers may explore sävelvälisten to achieve unique timbres, create expressive nuances, or to more closely align with the natural harmonics of sounds. This can be achieved through specialized instruments, electronic music technology, or by training performers to produce and perceive these subtle pitch variations. The exploration of sävelvälisten expands the sonic palette available to musicians and listeners, offering a richer and more complex approach to melody, harmony, and intonation.