Non-Pythagorean scale

Comparison of Non-Pythagorean pitches (red) to 12-tone equal tempered pitches (blue). Note that, while the equal tempered pitches increase exponentially, the pitches found lower on the Non-Pythagorean scale have frequencies that are farther apart while pitches found higher on the scale are closer together.

The Non-Pythagorean scale is a musical scale first conceived and developed by Robert Schneider of The Apples in Stereo. It is based on natural logarithms. The term "Non-Pythagorean" is a reference to Greek philosopher Pythagoras in respect to his work with the chromatic scale.

The scale was introduced in 2007 with the release of New Magnetic Wonder, the sixth studio album by The Apples in Stereo. The album featured two brief compositions using the scale. Enhanced CD versions of the album included a third composition as well as a variety of information from Schneider concerning the scale. Audio files and instructions are also on the disc, enabling the listener to prepare a MIDI keyboard to play in the Non-Pythagorean scale.

Though use of the scale is still sparse, Schneider encourages those interested to experiment with it and continue development of a possible musical theory.

External links

• The Non-Pythagorean scale at the official Apples in Stereo website
• A brief explanation of the differences between Pythagorean and Non-Pythagorean scales at Pop Culture Will Eat Itself