Includes bibliographical references (pages 217-222) and index.

"On keyboard instruments, tuning pure fifth intervals causes octaves to be out of tune. A temperament is a system in which the tuning of the fifths is altered to keep the octaves in tune and allow the use of all notes of the musical scale. A Guide to Musical Temperament explores how the twelve notes of the musical scale are tuned on keyboard instruments such as the harpsichord, clavichord, piano, and organ. All aspects of temperament are covered, including a progressive discussion of the theoretical basis for temperament, the musical implications of a temperament's characteristics, and the relationship of the theoretical with the practical, as well as techniques for tuning keyboard instruments and instructions for setting temperaments.

Author Thomas Donahue assembles new information and material from previous sources, providing a comprehensive outline of theories and a historical overview that fills a neglected niche in music and keyboard reference."--Jacket.

SACFinal081324