Music sounds good as long as we get the physics right. Get it just a little bit out, and it sounds awful. So what is the physics? Harmonics and wavelengths, pitch and frequencies, all become clear with some water, some tubes and some rubber bands. Students will explore the physics behind wind and string instruments, and the human voice, with simple experiments. And to really annoy those around, we'll have a look at percussion as well!

From Noise to Music

Sound Waves Sound Good

Pieces Of String That Sing

Wind In Wood & Brass

Drumming The Beat & More

Harmonics

Harmony & Concords

The Chromatic Scale

The Human Voice

Hearing & Music

The author would like to thank Rebecca Heitbaum for her assistance with this unit.

(c) Content: Lynne Kelly, 2007

(c) Format: EUMY Education, 2007