Details

ISBN-10: 0691202966
ISBN-13: 9780691202969
Publisher: Princeton University Press
Publish Date: 03/10/2020
Dimensions: 8.50" L, 5.40" W, 0.70" H

Music by the Numbers: From Pythagoras to Schoenberg

Paperback

Price: $17.95

Overview

How music has influenced mathematics, physics, and astronomy from ancient Greece to the twentieth century

Music is filled with mathematical elements. The works of Bach are often said to possess a math-like logic, and Arnold Schoenberg, Iannis Xenakis, and Karlheinz Stockhausen wrote music explicitly based on mathematical principles. Yet Eli Maor argues that it is music that has had the greater influence on mathematics, not the other way around. Starting with Pythagoras, proceeding through Schoenberg, and bringing the story up to the present with contemporary string theory, Music by the Numbers tells a fascinating story of composers, scientists, inventors, and eccentrics who have played a role in the age-old relationship between music, mathematics, and the physical sciences. Weaving compelling stories of historical episodes with Maor’s personal reflections as a mathematician and lover of classical music, this book will delight anyone who loves math and music.

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Reviews
"Eli Maor is always a good storyteller and Music by the Numbers should interest mathematicians who enjoy classical music as well as musicians who are curious about the mathematics behind music."–Robert W. Langer, University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire
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Details

ISBN-10: 0691202966
ISBN-13: 9780691202969
Publisher: Princeton University Press
Publish Date: 03/10/2020
Dimensions: 8.50" L, 5.40" W, 0.70" H
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