Great courses (DVD). Science & mathematics

Twelve lectures (approximately 45 minutes each) on three DVDs

Disc 1. Overtones : symphony in a single note (48 min.) ; Timbre : why each instrument sounds different (46 min.) ; Pitch and auditory illusions (47 min.) ; How scales are constructed (48 min.) -- Disc 2. How scale tunings and composition coevolved (46 min.) ; Dissonance and piano tuning (50 min.) ; Rhythm : from numbers to patterns (44 min.) ; Transformations and symmetry (50 min.) -- Disc 3. Self-reference from Bach to Gödel (42 min.) ; Composing with math : classical to avant-garde (45 min.) ; The digital delivery of music (46 min.) ; Math, music, and the mind (46 min.)

"Understanding the connections between music and mathematics helps you appreciate both, even if you have no special ability in either field--from knowing the mathematics behind tuning an instrument to understanding the features that define your favorite pieces. By exploring the mathematics of music, you also learn why non-Western music sounds so different, gain insight into the technology of modern sound reproduction, and start to hear the world around you in exciting new ways"--Website

Lecturer: David Kung, St. Mary's College of Maryland

DVD, full screen