Mathematics and Music by David Wright
Mathematics and Music - Table of Contents
PART I: INTERVALS, RATIOS & SCALES
- 1. Basic Concepts in Acoustics & Sound
- 2. Horizontal Structure and Melodic Patterns
- 3. Harmony and Related Numerology
- 4. Ratios and Musical Intervals
- 5. Logarithms and Musical Intervals
- 6. Chromatic Scales and Temperaments
PART II: ARITHMETIC, TIMBRE & TUNING
- 7. Octave Identification Systems
- 8. Properties of Integers in Music
- 9. The Integers as Intervals and Modular Systems
- 10. Timbre and Periodic Functions
- 11. Rational Numbers as Intervals
- 12. Rational Tuning and Equal Temperament
What You Will Learn in Mathematics and Music
Mathematics and Music by David Wright is an accessible, mathematically sound textbook that reveals the deep structural connections between pure mathematics, acoustics, and musical scale architectures. Published by the American Mathematical Society (AMS), this comprehensive volume guides readers through frequency ratios, logarithmic interval measurements, chromatic scales, octave identification systems, modular integer arithmetic, rational tuning schemes, and periodic functions for audio timbre analysis with exceptional clarity and pedagogical structure.
Designed for undergraduate mathematics majors, music theory scholars, audio engineers, and acoustics researchers, this foundational text bridges abstract mathematical modeling and physical musical practice. Wright demonstrates how modular integer rings explain interval relationships, how rational numbers determine harmonic temperaments, and how Fourier-style periodic functions define sound quality and timber. Whether you are studying equal temperament tuning, microtonal scales, or acoustic wave properties, this book offers an indispensable roadmap.
Recognized globally for its clear layout and creative interdisciplinary scope, it stands as one of the best mathematical music theory books for self-study. By balancing discrete arithmetic with continuous acoustic concepts, it serves as an essential tool for mastering the mathematics of music with confidence.
Book Details & Specifications
Title:
Mathematics and Music by David Wright
Publisher:
American Mathematical Society (AMS)
Year:
2009
Pages:
176
Type:
PDF
Language:
English
ISBN-10 #:
0821848739
ISBN-13 #:
978-0821848739
License:
University Educational Resource
Amazon:
Amazon
About the Author: David Wright
The author David Wright
is a Professor Emeritus in the Department of Mathematics and Statistics at Washington University in St. Louis, Missouri. His research background includes algebraic geometry, commutative algebra, and mathematical pedagogy, paired with a lifelong passion for musical composition and vocal arrangement.
Published open-access and through the American Mathematical Society (AMS), Mathematics and Music reflects Wright's dedicated career in teaching interdisciplinary courses that unify mathematics and fine arts. His accessible writing style, intuitive derivations, and practical acoustic examples make this volume a classic reference for mathematical music theory trusted by educators, musicians, and self-directed learners worldwide.
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