Musical Chord
An application for you to study music.
Tools for musicians, exercises on music theory, ear training, and direct-to-the-point theoretical content. Designed for singers, guitarists, keyboard players, bassists, drummers, and general musicians from beginners to advanced levels.
Harmonic Series
When a musical note is played, it does not generate just a single sound frequency but a series of frequencies that are integer multiples of the fundamental frequency. For example, if the fundamental frequency is 100 Hz, the harmonic series will include frequencies of 200 Hz, 300 Hz, 400 Hz, and so on. These multiples are called harmonics or overtones.
Structure of the Harmonic Series
The harmonic series starts with the fundamental note (first harmonic) and continues with the overtones:
First Harmonic: The fundamental frequency (F)
Second Harmonic: Twice the fundamental frequency (2F)
Third Harmonic: Three times the fundamental frequency (3F)
Fourth Harmonic: Four times the fundamental frequency (4F)
And so on. Each additional harmonic is an integer multiple of the fundamental frequency.
| Type | Frequency (Hz) | Relation | Intensity |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fundamental | 100 Hz | 1x (fundamental) | High |
| 1st Harmonic | 200 Hz | 2x | Medium |
| 2nd Harmonic | 300 Hz | 3x | Medium |
| 3rd Harmonic | 400 Hz | 4x | Low |
| 4th Harmonic | 500 Hz | 5x | Low |
| 5th Harmonic | 600 Hz | 6x | Very Low |
In string instruments, it is possible to highlight each harmonic by placing a finger lightly on the string at half, 1/3, 1/4, etc., of its length.
Each musical instrument has a unique harmonic series that contributes to its characteristic timbre. The presence, absence, and relative intensity of these harmonics determine the quality of the instrument's sound. In a piano, for instance, the harmonics may be more subdued, while in a saxophone, they may be more pronounced.
Timbre is the characteristic that allows us to distinguish one sound from another. It is timbre that enables us to tell the difference between a piano and a violin or a saxophone, even when these instruments play the same note at the same pitch and intensity. Various elements influence timbre, such as the material of the instrument, how the sounds are generated and resonate, among others. However, the primary factor is closely tied to the harmonic series. The quality and intensity of the harmonic components are what truly give the instrument its specific timbre.
Conclusion
The harmonic series is one of the foundations upon which music is built. Understanding its structure and function not only illuminates the nature of the sounds we hear but also reveals the intrinsic mathematics of music. This fundamental concept continues to inspire musicians, composers, and scientists to explore new sonic frontiers and deepen their understanding of musical art.
Understanding the harmonic series is, therefore, essential for any music student who wishes to deeply comprehend the structure of sounds and musical theory.