Perspectives on Data: Science of Music in the Lab

Easy access to data on the science of music is provided by several book series from Schottenbauer Publishing! Books contain graphs, data, and diagrams of the science of music and music performance.

The graphs below are excerpted from Volume 1 of Where Does Sound Come From?, as well as a free pamphlet from the publisher. These graphs show graphs of sound pressure which result from a person singing "ah."

Discussion Questions

1. Describe at least 2 differences between these two graphs.
2. What types of information are contained in each graph?
3. If possible, identify the frequency, wavelength, and/or amplitude of the wave in each graph.
4. Is it possible to determine the pitch of the note from either graph? If so, how?
5. Is it possible to determine the sound level (decibels) of the note from either graph? If so, how?
6. Which graph is more accurate?
7. Which graph is more useful?

Additional graphs on the science of music and music performance can be found in a free pamphlet from the publisher, and the following book series by M. Schottenbauer, Ph.D. The books below contain data from common band and orchestral instruments, plus recorders, keyboard, voice, and conducting. 

• Where Does Sound Come From?

• How Do You Play That Thingamabob? The Science of MusicPerformance

• The Science of Music: An Anthology of 28 Graphs for Kids,Teens, & Curious Adult

• Bow Science & Exercises for the Violin & Viola

Additional Information

Schottenbauer Publishing

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