Article,
Theories et pratiques de la gamme iranienne
Revue de musicologie, 71 (1/2): 79--118 (1985)
Abstract
From empiric observations, the great theorists of Irano-Arabian music have elaborated systems of divisions of the octave based upon priviledged intervals, showing a strong theoretical coherence. Examining the different stages of their reasoning, one can find out some slight deviations betwen the empiric data and their theoretical expression, allowing one to question the validity of their systems. The scientific analysis of intervals now used in contemporary Iran leads to regard all the attempts made up to now as more or less arbitrary reductions of data resisting any rigorous formulation.
