Timbre

Study Notes

Sound Characteristics

Timbre, or the quality of sound, helps distinguish between different sounds, even if they have the same pitch and loudness.
Sound is a mixture of sound waves occurring at different frequencies, which travel towards the ear and cause the eardrum to vibrate.

Noise

Noise is a subjective phenomenon, considered as undesirable sound by the brain.
What one person considers noise, another person might find pleasant (e.g., a child playing the violin).

Loudness and Pitch

Loudness is the strength of the sound, measured by the amplitude (height) of the sound waves.
Large amplitudes produce loud sounds, while small amplitudes produce quiet sounds.
Pitch deals with the frequency of sound wave vibrations.
Low-pitched sounds vibrate slowly (e.g., tuba), while high-pitched sounds vibrate rapidly (e.g., piccolo).

Differentiating Sounds

Loudness and pitch are not the only characteristics that distinguish between sounds.
Instruments vibrate at many different frequencies, known as harmonics.
The fundamental frequency is the lowest frequency of sound waves and is usually the loudest sound.
Higher frequency harmonics are referred to as overtones.
The relative pitch and loudness of harmonics and overtones give a sound its unique quality or timbre, allowing us to tell one sound from another.

Description

Test your knowledge on timbre, the quality of sound that allows us to distinguish between different musical instruments. Learn about how timbre is produced, its role in music perception, and how it can affect our overall listening experience.