Quality of Violin, Viola, 'Cello, and Bass-Viol Tones. I

Abstract

The elements that are important in the identification of the violin, viola, 'cello, and bass-viol tones were analyzed. These elements were found to be the harmonic structure of the middle portion of the tone; the harmonic structure of the ending portion of the tone (certain partials decayed rapidly leaving an afterring); the attack and decay of the tones; the vibrato (when present) of the tones; and the noises inherent in the mechanics of producing the tones. With the exception of vibrato, the important elements were determined and successful synthesis was accomplished. By the use of a jury of observers, identification tests were made. A successful description was arrived at when and only when synthetic tones could not be identified from real tones. It was found that there is a vibrato both in frequency and relative intensity.