Geometry in Music

It has long been known that there is a deep connection between mathematics and music. In this talk and performance, David and Purnaprajna show how modern geometry sheds light on the connection between different genres of music. They develop a meta-geometric framework for a new music that integrates elements of Indian and western classical music, Jazz and the Blues. Parts of a composition illustrating the principles will be illustrated during the show.

“The study of overtone series is well known as a foundational point of origin for western musicians who are drawn to explore the cross-civilizational integration of Indian classical music. Based on the work of Herman Helmholtz in the 1850’s and further elucidated for the modern era with specific application for musicians by W.A. Mathieu’s book, “Harmonic Experience.” This has been my chosen musical path and is the fundamental theoretical basis that led to the creation of my group, the Turtle Island String Quartet, in 1985. When Prof. Purnaprajna approached me with the idea of working together on his Meta Raga system, I immediately realized its potential. I further perceived clear congruities in his theoretical framework to not only the approach taken in W.A. Mathieu’s book, but also the work of western music giants such as Arnold Schoenberg and John Coltrane.” – David Balakrishnan