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Tuning & pitch

Tetrachord

What is tetrachord? A clear definition from the tuning & pitch section of our glossary, with 12 related terms, tools to try and further reading.

Definition of Tetrachord

In music theory, a tetrachord (Greek: τετράχορδoν; Latin: tetrachordum) is a series of four notes separated by three intervals. In traditional music theory, a tetrachord always spanned the interval of a perfect fourth, a 4:3 frequency proportion (approx. 498 cents)—but in modern use it means any four-note segment of a scale or tone row, not necessarily related to a particular tuning system. Three modal patterns are possible:

Related terms

Frequently asked questions

What is Tetrachord?

In music theory, a tetrachord (Greek: τετράχορδoν; Latin: tetrachordum) is a series of four notes separated by three intervals. In traditional music theory, a tetrachord always spanned the interval of a perfect fourth, a 4:3 frequency proportion (approx.

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