Hi Walter,

Though many of my friends and relatives might say I am possessed by
demons, I think it's more something like The Muses playing in my
brain. (ok..so I'm divulging my panentheistic bent here) I would
like to say that all of my ideas are my own, but I can't deny that
there is some compelling force that keeps me interested in finding
new scales and exploring them compositionally. It all started many,
many years ago when I began to question the origins of the way the
keys on the piano were arranged the way they are. I have often
referred to myself as being self-taught because I have had very
little training, but I do feel that I have been guided by something
other than my own curiosity. Maybe there is just some major force
within the collective unconcious that wants to stay alive and finds
outlets where it can. It's not as scary as it might sound, except
for the blinding migraines, nausea, and propensity for walking in
front of busses when obsessed by a thought.

Music and math, as well as all of our art-sciences, want to be
sustained and we like to help keep the flame alive because we have a
mutually reinforcing realtionship with them. Some of us are more on
the edge and some of us want to preserve what has come before. It's
all in the same spirit, I think.

As for different types of scales.. I like to explore a new/old
scale musically and let it take me where it goes. I will then often
get an idea to start a song with what's unfolding. I normally don't
know where it's going to wind up. I will also sometimes get a
sketch of a melody going through my head when I read lyrics or
poetry.

Your questions are very good. I am looking forward to seeing the
variety of responses to your post.

Regards,

Robin







--- In tuning@yahoogroups.com, "Walter Lepore" <soundmaker@...>
wrote:
>
> Hi Members,
>
> It's been awhile since I last posted a message. Hope all are well.
>
> I have a question please...
>
> What is in the mind of a "scale builder" when he/she creates a
scale?
>
> Its been my interest to discover why scales exist, why they are
> created and how to apply these new and old "collection of
> frequencies" to composition. This seemingly "basic" question can
> certainly have complicated answers.
>
> I do have adequate training in music theory and composition but
still
> learning the inner workings of tuning theory. Forgive me if this
> question ranks as an entry-level question.
>
> I'd like to know how my question relates to the following:
>
> 1) Designing a scale with Secundal, Tertian, Quartal, and
Quintal
> Harmonies in mind.
>
> 2) Designing specific tunings or scales for Composition
>
> 3) Scale builders who create/build scales without composition in
mind.
>
> 4) Why would a composer choose a specific tuning or scale over
> another.
>
> I'm sure the question will come into better focus as responses
begin
> to filter in as it may be covering too broad an area initially.
>
> Any response relating to the initial question is appreciated.
>
> Thank you all for your time.
> Walter Lepore New Jersey USA
>