AW.: Something got done

In einer Nachricht vom 12/11/99 7:00:07 PM (MEZ) Mitteleurop�ische
Zeitschreibt josephpehrson@compuserve.com:

<<
It obviously also fits right in with Johnny Reinhard's contention that
"everything" is microtonal, even 12t-ET. (Actually, that also solves the
"performance practice" quandry as well)
>>

When "'everything' is microtonal", then the word "microtonal" ceases to mean
anything distinctive or useful. You start to wonder why you would want to
bother using the word in the first place.

The classical definition of microtone (something less than a semitone) is
useful, and the adjectival form, when refering in any way to such small
intervals (i.e. "the Greek enharmonic used microtonal melodic motion" or "the
interval between the ratio 7/4 and a 12tet minor seventh is microtonal") is
also useful.

Daniel Wolf wrote:

"When "'everything' is microtonal", then the word "microtonal" ceases to mean
anything distinctive or useful. You start to wonder why you would want to
bother using the word in the first place."

Actually, the term "microtonal" has been very useful to me. Based an entire
career on it. Frankly, Daniel, I think you are missing a bigger picture.
There is nothing classical about the word microtone for it was always said in
derision.

If an omni-perspective that takes into account the comparison of distinct
tunings (and temperaments) comfortably calls it a "microtonal" perspective
because of an evolved definition, no one will be able to hold it back.

And since we are going no where fast in trying to convice each other we may
as well move on.

Johnny Reinhard
AFMM