How China Calculated Equal Temperament

The transcript explores the evolution of music theory in ancient China, focusing on the development of the circle of fifths and the challenges of achieving octave equivalency. It highlights the contributions of theorists like Jinfeng, Luzzi, and Chu Zaiyu, who made significant advancements in pitch calculation and equal temperament. Despite early challenges, these efforts laid the groundwork for modern music theory.

What was the primary issue with the circle of fifths as realized by ancient Chinese theorists?

• It did not align with the movements of heavenly bodies.

• It was too complex to calculate.

• It was not aesthetically pleasing.

• It did not return to the same pitch.

During the Han dynasty, how many pitches per octave did Jinfeng calculate?

• 24

• 60

• 12

• 360

What was the main contribution of Wompoo in the development of equal temperament?

• He calculated the 12th root of 2.

• He created a perfect 2 to 1 octave by cutting a pipe in half.

• He introduced the concept of new temperament.

• He developed the circle of fifths.

Who was the first to mathematically calculate equal temperament to 25 decimal places?

• Jinfeng

• Luzzi

• Wompoo

• Zhu Zaiyu

What was the emperor's decision regarding Zhu Zaiyu's tuning system?

• He used it partially.

• He postponed the decision.

• He implemented it immediately.

• He rejected it.