Topmusicanswers
- Do all notes have overtones?
- Can individual notes be referred to as tones?
- Can you hear overtones on a recording?
- How do overtones affect sound?
Do all notes have overtones?
An overtone is any frequency greater than the fundamental frequency of a sound. In other words, overtones are higher pitches resulting from the lowest note or fundamental. While the fundamental is usually heard most prominently, overtones are actually present in any pitch except a true sine wave.
Can individual notes be referred to as tones?
Individual tones are specifically recognized as such. Pitches having the same letter name but separated by range are recognized as pitch-classes. Therefore the note one ledger line below the Treble Staff is designated as the pitch “C” (or “Middle C”), but all notes so labeled constitute the pitch-class “C.”
Can you hear overtones on a recording?
Each instrument has its own individual timbre, which will contain different overtones along with the original note, in differing strengths. That's why each instrument sound unique to us, even when each plays exactly the same pitch. So, yes, providing those overtones are within human hearing range, they will be heard.
How do overtones affect sound?
A sound without a distinct pitch is usually regarded as unpleasant. So, an instrument with harmonic overtones means that you can add the harmonics in various amounts to adjust the tone quality while preserving a sense of pitch and producing a pleasing sound.
