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Frequency Analysis of Bowing and Pizzicato as a Function of Placement on a Viola A String
Rebagay, Rachel
Rebagay, Rachel
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Composer
Publisher
Date
2015
Additional date(s)
2015-05-01
Abstract
When playing a viola, there are many ways to produce a sound from a string. Sound can be produced by drawing a bow over the string or by using a finger to pluck the string (also known as pizzicato). Although these methods of playing produce the same note, they produce different sounds. Furthermore, the location in which the bow is placed between the bridge and fingerboard of the instrument and the location of the pluck along the string length affects the tone quality. Using a DSO1014A Oscilloscope, the frequencies and magnitudes of a sound signal captured by a microphone can be analyzed. By comparing the frequency spectrums of notes plucked or bowed at different locations along the A string, difference in tone quality can be justified qualitatively. The differences in sound due to bowing vs. pizzicato, bow placement, type of pizzicato, 4th finger harmonics, and mutes were able to be justified using the frequency spectra generated through testing. By observing the frequency spectrums of various viola playing techniques, musicians can further understand how to get the best sound out of their instrument.
Contents
Subject
Viola
Frequency Analysis
Music
Bowing
Pizzicato
Mute
Harmonics
Playing Techniques
Frequency Analysis
Music
Bowing
Pizzicato
Mute
Harmonics
Playing Techniques
Subject(s)
Research Projects
Organizational Units
Journal Issue
Genre
Description
Format
Department
Engineering
Advisor
Walter, Patrick