sointiväri

Sointiväri is a Finnish term that translates to "chord color" or "timbre of a chord." It refers to the unique sonic quality of a musical chord, which is determined by the specific combination of overtones present in the individual notes that form the chord. While the fundamental frequencies of the notes define the harmony, the interplay of their overtones creates the characteristic sound, or "color," of that particular chord.

Different instruments playing the same chord will produce distinct sointiväri due to their differing overtone series. For example, a chord played on a piano will sound different from the same chord played on a guitar or a violin, even if the notes are precisely the same. This is because each instrument has its own unique harmonic content.

Composers and arrangers often consider sointiväri when choosing instrumentation or voicing chords. The selection of instruments and their arrangement can significantly influence the emotional impact and aesthetic quality of a musical passage. A chord might be described as "bright," "dark," "rich," or "thin" based on its sointiväri. Understanding this concept allows for a deeper appreciation of the nuances in musical texture and sound design. It's a subtle but important aspect of musical perception, contributing to the overall character and expressiveness of music.