Physics of Music

Recommended Prerequisites

General Physics.

Teaching Methods

1) Theoretical exposition of topics with the use of experimental demonstrations.
2) Laboratory classes with previously prepared works, with written reports.
3) Review work done in close interaction with the teacher.

Learning Outcomes

A. Acquisition of basic concepts in physics necessary for the understanding of music and of related technologies.
B. Acquisition of interdisciplinary competences motivated by this interdisciplinary topic par excellence (point of convergence of varied scientific and artistic areas such as music, physics, mathematics, civil engineering, mechanical engineering, electrotechnical engineering, informatics, material science and psychology).
C. Development of experimental and laboratorial competences in the measurement of acoustical quantities.
D. The following secondary competences should also be developed: organization and work method; technical communication, through the laboratory reports; interdisciplinary communication, through the presentation of a review work.

Work Placement(s)

No

Syllabus

I. Basic physics of acoustical systems: vibrations, waves, sound, resonance.
II. Perception and measurement of sound: hearing, sound pressure and sound power, physical and psychological intensities; pitch and timbre; harmonics and harmony; musical scales and temperament; environmental noise, its control and its physiological and psychological effects.
III. Musical instruments: strings, brass instruments, woodwind instruments, percussion instruments, keyboard instruments.
IV. Human voice: production, identification, analysis and synthesis of speech; singing.
V. Introduction to electroacoustics: electronic circuits, loudspeakers. microphones, amplifiers and reception devices; computers and digital techniques in music; sound recording.
VI. Introduction to architectural acoustics: auditorium acoustics, electronic reinforcement of sound, small rooms, studios.

Assessment Methods

Assessment
Synthesis work: 20.0%
Laboratory work or Field work: 20.0%
Exam: 60.0%

Bibliography

- Acústica Musical, Luís L. Henrique, Fundação Calouste Gulbenkian (2002).
- The Science of Sound, 3rd edition, T. D. Rossing, F. R. Moore e P. A. Wheeler, Addison Wesley (2002).
- The Physics of Musical Instruments, N. H. Fletcher e T. D. Rossing, Springer (1998).