In my previous post on the Pythagorean Comma, I wanted to provide slow-moving illustrations that would give the listener enough time to judge each interval traversed.  Here I’d like to provide a simpler and faster-moving example.  You’ll hear a rapid sequence of ascending fifths and descending octaves, starting on C and reaching B# an octave above, which is then contrasted with the initial C.  These starting and ending notes will agree in equal temperament but will differ by a pythagorean comma if the fifths throughout the sequence are tuned justly.

Equal Temperament:

[audio http://rudiseitz1.files.wordpress.com/2013/12/pythagoreancommashort12et.mp3]

Pure Intervals:

[audio http://rudiseitz1.files.wordpress.com/2013/12/pythagoreancommashort.mp3]

pythShort

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