SESQUIALTERA Meaning and
Definition
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Sesquialtera is a musical term that originated from the Latin language. In the realm of music theory, sesquialtera refers to a particular type of ratio or interval, and it can also be used to describe a specific stop on a pipe organ.
In terms of ratio or interval, sesquialtera signifies a proportion of 3:2, also known as a "compound perfect fifth." This ratio occurs when a note is combined with another note that is a perfect fifth away, but with an additional half step above the second note. This results in a harmonically rich, slightly dissonant interval. Sesquialtera intervals were often used in Renaissance and Baroque music to create variety and tension.
As a pipe organ stop, sesquialtera refers to a group of pipes that produce a specific sound. It typically consists of two ranks of pipes, with one rank playing at the octave above the other. This creates a unique and distinctive timbre that can complement various other stops on the organ.
Overall, sesquialtera is a term that has both theoretical and practical applications in the context of music. It signifies a specific interval ratio as well as a stop on a pipe organ, demonstrating its importance and versatility within the realm of musical theory and performance.
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A certain stop on the organ.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for SESQUIALTERA
Etymology of SESQUIALTERA
The word "sesquialtera" comes from Latin, where "sesqui" means "one and a half" and "altera" means "the other". In music theory, sesquialtera refers to a musical ratio of 3:2 or the combination of two notes, one being one and a half times the frequency of the other. The term has been used since medieval times to describe the interval between the perfect fifth and the major third, as well as an organ stop that produces this interval.
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