A Theory of Tonal Hierarchies in Music

Abstract

This chapter traces progress in our understanding of music perception since the work of Helmholtz. This progress has been strongest in the area of pitch perception, both in terms of sequential organization (melody) and simultaneous combinations (harmony). There are grounds for anticipating accelerated progress in our understanding of rhythm and time in the near future. Acculturation as a result of lifelong perceptual learning governs the way the individual will perceive and comprehend music. Our understanding of cognitive processes in general has been enhanced by increased study of applications in music of the perceptual organization of pitch and rhythm.