Overview

Why does a harpsichord sound different from a piano? For that matter, why does middle C on a piano differ from middle C on a tuning fork, a trombone, or a flute? Good Vibrations explains in clear, friendly language the out-of-sight physics responsible not only for these differences but also for the whole range of noises we call music. The physical properties and history of sound are fascinating to study. Barry Parker's tour of the physics of music details the science of how instruments, the acoustics of rooms, electronics, and humans create and alter the varied sounds we hear. Using physics as a base, Parker discusses the history of music, how sounds are made and perceived, and the various effects of acting on sounds. In the process, he demonstrates what acoustics can teach us about quantum theory and explains the relationship between harmonics and the theory of waves. Peppered throughout with anecdotes and examples illustrating key concepts, this invitingly written book provides a firm grounding in the actual and theoretical physics of music.

Full Product Details

Author:   Barry Parker
Publisher:   Johns Hopkins University Press
Imprint:   Johns Hopkins University Press
Dimensions:   Width: 15.20cm , Height: 2.40cm , Length: 22.90cm
Weight:   0.544kg
ISBN:  

9780801892646

ISBN 10:   0801892643
Pages:   288
Publication Date:   09 February 2010
Recommended Age:   From 18 years
Audience:   General/trade ,  Professional and scholarly ,  General ,  Professional & Vocational
Format:   Hardback
Publisher's Status:   Active
Availability:   Out of stock  
The supplier is temporarily out of stock of this item. It will be ordered for you on backorder and shipped when it becomes available.

Table of Contents

"Acknowledgments Introduction I. Sound and Sound Waves 1. Making Music: How Sound Is Made 2. The Sound of Music: Perception 3. Good Vibes: Waves in Motion II. The Building Blocks of Music 4. Making Music Beautiful: Complex Musical Tones 5. The Well-Tempered Scale 6. Down Melody Lane with Chords and Chord Sequences 7. ""You've Gotta Have Rhythm"": Rhythm and Types of Music III. Musical Instruments 8. Why a Piano Is Not a Harpsichord 9. The Stringed Instruments: Making Music with the Violin and the Guitar 10. The Brass Instruments: Trumpet and Trombone 11. The Woodwinds: Clarinet and Saxophone 12. The Most Versatile Instrument: The Singing Voice IV. New Technologies and Acoustics 13. New Technologies and Acoustics 14. Making a MIDI Recording 15. The Acoustics of Concert Halls and Studios Epilogue Suggested Readings Index"

Reviews

<p>Good Vibrations provides many interesting facts and connections between physics and music for the general reader.--David Dolak Physics Today (01/01/0001)

Good Vibrations deals, in a nontechnical manner, with the very interesting subject of the physics of music. Choice 2010 Good Vibrations provides many interesting facts and connections between physics and music for the general reader. -- David Dolak Physics Today 2010 It is seriously easy to understand... It is clear that Parker loves having been born into a world that includes music. Reading this book is like listening to a teacher who worships his subject matter. -- Joseph Arellano Sacramento Bee 2010

Author Information

Barry Parker is a professor emeritus of physics at Idaho State University and the author of The Isaac Newton School of Driving and Death Rays, Jet Packs, Stunts, and Supercars, both published by Johns Hopkins.

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