middletuning

Middletuning is a theoretical concept in music theory that describes a tuning system where the interval of a perfect fifth is not perfectly pure, but is instead slightly tempered. This tempering is done to accommodate other intervals, such as the major third, which are often made more consonant in middletuning systems. The goal of middletuning is to create a more balanced and pleasing sound across a wider range of musical keys than is possible with simpler tuning systems like Pythagorean tuning.

In Pythagorean tuning, perfect fifths are tuned to a ratio of 3:2, which results in pure fifths but also creates very wide and dissonant major thirds. To address this, middletuning systems adjust the size of the perfect fifth. This adjustment can be done in various ways, leading to different specific middletuning systems. For example, some systems might make the fifth slightly smaller to narrow the major third, while others might make it slightly larger. The precise amount of tempering varies depending on the desired characteristics of the tuning.

The practical application of middletuning is often seen in the tuning of historical instruments, particularly stringed instruments like lutes and viols, as well as some early keyboard instruments. These instruments were often tuned to specific middletuning systems to achieve a particular sound quality and to facilitate playing in a variety of keys. The development of these systems reflects a desire for greater harmonic richness and flexibility in musical composition and performance. While modern equal temperament tuning dominates contemporary music, understanding middletuning provides insight into the evolution of Western musical intonation and its impact on musical aesthetics.