Musical Acoustics Analysis of Instrument Pairings

Futher Explaination and code could be view from google drive & Github links above

Abstract

This study investigates how the acoustic properties of instruments from different cultures contribute to their unique sounds and compatibility when paired. By analyzing the waveforms and spectral characteristics of various instruments (namely, the kazoo, tongue drum, flute, timpani, and kalimba), we assess their frequency distributions/harmonics, flatness, and spectral entropy. Results indicate that instrument pairings from the same cultural region exhibit lower spectral entropy, concentrated harmonics, and higher spectral magnitudes, creating more harmonious interactions. In contrast, cross-cultural pairings display greater randomness and reduced harmonic compatibility. These findings suggest a strong link between the cultural origin of instruments, their acoustic properties, and their perceived musical compatibility, offering insights for sound design and innovative cross-cultural music production.

Introduction

Music is central to cultures worldwide, with the acoustic properties of instruments defining their unique sounds. This project examines how the materials and sound waves of various instruments influence their sonic qualities, focusing on cross-cultural pairings, such as combining Chinese and European or Brazilian instruments. By exploring these interactions, we aim to uncover new possibilities for sound design, music production, and cross-cultural collaboration.

Background

Cultural differences in music are often easily recognizable, primarily due to variations in music theory—such as scales, harmonies, rhythms, and meters. For instance, a Scottish jig played on a trumpet is still recognizable but may feel out of place, while the same jig on bagpipes fits perfectly within its cultural context. This illustrates how instrumentation influences timbre, which is shaped by the sound’s frequency spectrum and envelope. Our goal is to explore instrument pairings not only between Chinese and Western instruments, as discussed in this research (\cite{liu2022comparison}), but also across other cultures. We aim to examine the physical characteristics of these instruments and how they interact both within and across different cultural contexts, offering scientific insights into the reasons behind diverse cultural instrumentations.