In a groundbreaking exploration of musical scales and temperaments, Russian researcher Vladimir P. Burskii has unveiled a novel approach to keyboard organization that could revolutionize the way musicians and composers approach tuning and pitch organization. His work, focused on the 53-tone tempered system, offers a fresh perspective on the potential of microtonal music and the practical implementation of complex temperaments on traditional keyboard instruments.
Burskii’s research delves into the numerical comparison of various musical temperaments, assessing their approximation of the Pythagorean scale. His findings substantiate the thesis that the 53-tone tempered system is the most advanced among possible alternatives. By presenting numerical data on the approximation of the first twenty overtones, Burskii demonstrates the precision and accuracy of the 53-tone system in capturing the harmonic series. This level of detail and refinement could open up new avenues for composers and musicians, enabling them to explore microtonal intervals with unprecedented clarity and control.
One of the most practical and innovative aspects of Burskii’s work is the proposal of several schemes for a three-manual keyboard designed to implement the 53-tone temperament. These schemes are not only compatible with the 53-tone system but also accommodate other temperaments, including 12-, 17-, 24-, 29-, and 41-tone systems. This versatility means that, with the right technical means, musicians could use these keyboards to play in a wide range of temperaments, making the instrument a powerful tool for experimental and microtonal music.
The implications of Burskii’s research extend beyond the realm of classical music. In the world of audio production and electronic music, the ability to work with such precise and flexible tuning systems could lead to the creation of new sounds and textures. Producers and sound designers could leverage these temperaments to craft unique soundscapes and instruments, enriching the sonic palette available in modern music production. Furthermore, the exploration of microtonal intervals could inspire new approaches to composition and performance, pushing the boundaries of what is possible in contemporary music.
Burskii’s work represents a significant step forward in the understanding and application of complex temperaments. By providing a detailed and systematic approach to keyboard organization, he has laid the groundwork for future innovations in musical instruments and tuning systems. As technology continues to advance, the practical implementation of these ideas could become more accessible, offering musicians and composers new tools to explore the vast and nuanced world of microtonal music. Read the original research paper here.
