A Mathematical Exploration of Music and Sound

Offered By: St. Mark's School via Canvas Network

Course Description

Overview

This course explores the fundamental connections between mathematics and music. Students will have the opportunity to learn about acoustics and music theory through a mathematical lens. At the core of music are patterns, structures, and relationships that can be understood mathematically. The course will provide opportunities for students to play with and explore some of the concepts, including scales, the Fourier series, beats, rhythm, and harmonics.

Syllabus

Week 1: What is sound? How do we hear sound?
Week 2: Sound waves and simple harmonic motion.
Pitch, octaves, and scale.
Week 3: Fourier Series
Week 4: The Harmonic Series
Project - Build an Instrument
Week 5: Rhythm and Time
Week 6: Intervals and Chords
Creating Music with Mathematics

Taught by

Ben Riva and Lauren Riva

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