Equal Temperament vs. Well Temperament

Attribute	Equal Temperament	Well Temperament
Tuning method	Divides the octave into 12 equal semitones	Divides the octave into various unequal intervals
Use in modern music	Most commonly used tuning system	Less commonly used in modern music
Harmonic purity	Less pure intervals compared to just intonation	Can have more pure intervals due to unequal tuning
Key modulation	Allows for easy modulation between keys	May have different tuning characteristics in different keys

Introduction

Equal temperament and well temperament are two different tuning systems used in music. Both systems have their own unique characteristics and advantages. In this article, we will compare the attributes of equal temperament and well temperament to understand how they differ and how they impact the music that is created using each system.

Equal Temperament

Equal temperament is a tuning system in which the octave is divided into twelve equal parts. This means that each half step is the same distance apart, resulting in all intervals being slightly out of tune compared to pure intervals. The advantage of equal temperament is that it allows for easy modulation between different keys, as all keys are equally in tune. This system is commonly used in Western music, especially in keyboard instruments like the piano.

• Divides the octave into twelve equal parts
• Allows for easy modulation between keys
• Commonly used in Western music

Well Temperament

Well temperament is a tuning system that predates equal temperament and was commonly used in the Baroque period. In well temperament, the tuning of each key is adjusted slightly to make certain intervals sound more in tune. This results in each key having its own unique character and color. Well temperament allows for more expressive playing and can enhance the emotional impact of the music being performed.

• Each key is tuned slightly differently
• Allows for more expressive playing
• Enhances the emotional impact of the music

Comparison

When comparing equal temperament and well temperament, one of the main differences is the way in which the octave is divided. Equal temperament divides the octave into twelve equal parts, while well temperament adjusts the tuning of each key individually. This results in equal temperament being more versatile for playing in different keys, while well temperament offers a more nuanced and expressive sound.

Another difference between the two systems is the impact they have on the emotional content of the music. Well temperament, with its unique tuning for each key, can enhance the emotional impact of the music being performed. On the other hand, equal temperament, with its equal division of the octave, may lack some of the emotional depth that well temperament can provide.

Additionally, well temperament allows for more flexibility in tuning certain intervals to sound more in tune, while equal temperament sacrifices the purity of intervals in order to allow for easy modulation between keys. This means that well temperament can offer a richer and more varied sound palette, while equal temperament provides a more consistent and standardized tuning system.

Conclusion

In conclusion, equal temperament and well temperament are two different tuning systems with their own unique attributes and advantages. Equal temperament is more versatile for playing in different keys and is commonly used in Western music, especially in keyboard instruments like the piano. On the other hand, well temperament offers a more nuanced and expressive sound, with each key having its own unique character and color. Both systems have their place in music, and the choice between them ultimately depends on the desired emotional impact and expressive qualities of the music being performed.