Taking a "music first" approach, Gareth E. Roberts's From Music to Mathematics will inspire students to learn important, interesting, and at times advanced mathematics. Ranging from a discussion of the geometric sequences and series found in the rhythmic structure of music to the phase-shifting techniques of composer Steve Reich, the musical concepts and examples in the book motivate a deeper study of mathematics. Comprehensive and clearly written, From Music to Mathematics is designed to appeal to readers without specialized knowledge of mathematics or music. Students are taught the relevant concepts from music theory (notation, scales, intervals, the circle of fifths, tonality, etc.), with the pertinent mathematics developed alongside the related musical topic. The mathematics advances in level of difficulty from calculating with fractions, to manipulating trigonometric formulas, to constructing group multiplication tables and proving a number is irrational. Topics discussed in the book include Rhythm Introductory music theory The science of sound Tuning and temperament Symmetry in music The Bartok controversy Change ringing Twelve-tone music Mathematical modern music The Hemachandra-Fibonacci numbers and the golden ratio Magic squares Phase shifting Featuring numerous musical excerpts, including several from jazz and popular music, each topic is presented in a clear and in-depth fashion. Sample problems are included as part of the exposition, with carefully written solutions provided to assist the reader. The book also contains more than 200 exercises designed to help develop students' analytical skills and reinforce the material in the text. From the first chapter through the last, readers eager to learn more about the connections between mathematics and music will find a comprehensive textbook designed to satisfy their natural curiosity.

A guided tour of the mathematical principles inherent in music.

About the Author
Gareth E. Roberts is an associate professor of mathematics at the College of the Holy Cross.

Reviews
Overall, From Music to Mathematics is a pleasing and well-written book that is accessible for everyone who wants to explore the connections between music and mathematics. Gareth Roberts does a great job of making numerous suggestions on how music can be used to illuminate mathematical concepts... From Music to Mathematics is very enjoyable to read - not only for students, but for anyone who loves music and mathematics. Musicae Scientiae Overall, I strongly recommend this as an excellent basis for teaching. MathSciNet



Book Information
ISBN 9781421419183
Author Gareth E. Roberts
Format Hardback
Page Count 320
Imprint Johns Hopkins University Press
Publisher Johns Hopkins University Press
Weight(grams) 726g
Dimensions(mm) 254mm * 178mm * 27mm