Characteristics of Sound and Elements of Music

Rhythm

How sounds and silence are organized. the use of notes

Pitch

the highness or lowness of a sound. Measured in hertz(cycles per second). Women and young people can hear a higher pitch. Represented by a movement up or down on the staff.

Duration

the length of musical sound effects.

Intensity

the loudness or softness of a sound. measure in decibels. 40-50 decibels of sound in a normal room. humans can here up to 115-120 decibels before pain arises. intensity is amplified vibrations. "sound pressure level." Energy level doubles every 3 decibels.

Form

the overall structure of the music

Timbre

the quality of sound of a certain instrument caused by 1.overtone series or 2.method of tone production

Melody

the sequential ordering of pitches

Harmony

the simultaneous use of pitches