Definition of Pseudo-octave
In music theory, a pseudo-octave, pseudooctave,
is an interval whose ratio of frequencies is not exactly the 2:1 = octave:tonic expected for perfectly harmonic pitches, but slightly wider or narrower in pitch – for example 1.98:1, 2.01:1, or even as large as 2.3:1. The pseudo-octave is nevertheless perceived as if it were equivalent to the conventional 2:1 harmonic ratio, and consequently is treated the same. Pitches separated by a pseudo-octave appropriate for a given instrument are considered equivalent to each other just as with normal "pitch classes" (which are typically explained only in terms of the idealized 2:1 octave).
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Frequently asked questions
What is Pseudo-octave?
In music theory, a pseudo-octave, pseudooctave,
Sources & credits
- Wikipedia: Pseudo-octave – CC BY-SA 4.0
- Image by Created by Hyacinth ( talk ) 06:31, 7 June 2010 using Sibelius 5. – Public domain