Microtones Ex. 2

Brian Ferneyhough, Carceri d’Invenzione IIb
(m. 148-153)

Microtones are intervals smaller than a half-step, the most common of which are quarter-tones. I have included a demonstration of a third-octave quarter-tone scale to illustrate the extremely close distances between pitches. The execution of quarter tones requires the performer to either employ a different fingering or bend the pitch up or down with the embouchure. Because the standard Boehm-system flute was developed in the 1840s and obviously not designed for microtones, the artificial fingerings involved will produce different (often muted) timbres that are sometimes radically different from the surrounding semitones. The creative composer will use these timbral differences to underscore musical ideas. For example, Brian Ferneyhough’s effective use of quarter tones and other microtones creates this haunting passage from his Carceri d'Invenzione IIb (The Dungeons of Invention).