MATH 31Mathematics of Music

3 credits · Mathematics · Penn State

This course is intended to explore the connections between mathematics and music. Topics include elementary combinatorics, trigonometry, group theory, probability and game theory, and how these mathematical principles can help us understand rhythm, melody, harmony, pitch, and composition. This is an applied mathematics course using music as the context, and is intended for any student who is interested in learning about how these two fields interact. No prior knowledge of mathematics or music is required; however, some knowledge of algebra and trigonometry, and basic understanding of musical notation, may be beneficial.