Timbre

Question 1

Define TIMBRE

Answer 1

• A perceived auditory attribute that distinguishes different sounds/sound sources from each other
• Dependent on an objects physical properties
• Independent of loudness of pitch

Question 2

How do TEMPORAL and SPECTRAL representations of TIMBRE differ?

Answer 2

TEMPORAL shows how a sound changes over time that gives it a unique sound

SPECTRAL shows how the sound’s energy is distributed across upper frequencies (most likely harmonics if using pitched musical instruments); this is shown in the magnitude of their individual amplitudes

Question 3

What are the four components of the ADSR model?

Answer 3

Attack: 0 > MAX
Decay: MAX to lower
Sustain: Remaining constant ——
Release: > 0

Question 4

What is a FORMANT?

Answer 4

A peak in the harmonic spectrum above the fundamental frequency

Question 5

How are FORMANTS relevant to every day timbral perception? What is the ‘first formant’ and why is it important?

Answer 5

Formants determine the vowels sounds of speech and the first formant (peak closest to the fundamental frequency) is particularly important

Question 6

Define SPECTRAL CENTROID; what is its perceptual effect?

Answer 6

How much spectral energy is concentrated in the HIGHER harmonics

High SC = bright/piercing sound

Question 7

Define SPECTRAL IRREGULARITY; give 2 examples of instruments with high spectral irregulary

Answer 7

When the amplitudes of adjacent harmonics have an irregular pattern

Irregularity = clarinet (square wave) and vibraphone

Question 8

For nasal sounds, where is the spectral energy focused?

Answer 8

Between 2000 and 5000 Hz