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Music is a science which should have definite rules; these rules should be drawn from an evident principle; and this principle cannot really be known to us without the aid of mathematics.
Jean-Philippe Rameau
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Interpretation

What this quote means

Music is governed by mathematical principles that give it structure and form.

In this quote, Jean-Philippe Rameau emphasizes the scientific aspects of music, suggesting that it is not just an art form but also a discipline that relies on definite rules derived from mathematical principles. He argues that to truly understand music, one must recognize the underlying mathematics that contributes to its composition and structure.

Themes

MusicScienceMathematicsRulesArt

In practice

Example use cases

During a lecture on the relationship between mathematics and music, this quote can emphasize the importance of both disciplines.

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