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13.15 - Principle of Proportion

The ratio of two numbers to each other. Proportion is in three kinds: (1) multiplex. (2) Superparticularis. (3) Superpartiens. Proportio multiplex is when the larger number contains the smaller so many times without a remainder, as 2:1 (dupla), 3:1 (tripla), 4:1 (quadrupla). Proportio superparticularis is when the larger number exceeds the smaller by one only as 3:2 (sesquialtera), 4:3 (sesquitertia), 5:4 (sesquiquarta). Proportio superpartiens is when the larger number exceeds the smaller by more than one, as 5:3 (superbipartienstertias), 7:4 (supertripartiensquartas), 9:5 (superquadripartiensquintas).

Thus, it will be understood, that instead of giving simply the ratio between two numbers, early writers on arithmetic and geometry, as well as music, coined a single word to express that ratio; for example, 17:5 was said to be Triplasuperbipartiensquintas, i.e., that the larger number contained the smaller number three times (tripla) with two remainder (bipariens). Again, Triplasupertripartiensquartas proportio, signified that the larger contained the smaller three times and three over, as 15:4, 27:8, etc., the last part of the compound word always pointing out the smaller of the numbers compared, or an exact multiple of it. Lastly, the addition of sub showed that the smaller number was compared to the larger, e.g., 4:15 would be called Subtriplasupertripartiensquartas proportio. This system of proportion was used not only with reference to intervals but also to the comparative length of notes (time). (A Dictionary of Musical Terms)

Reciprocal Proportion
increases and decreases are in inverse or direct proportion to rate of change (delta).

Radiation from Plane of Equilibrium -00+ 
Degree of Concord or Discord is determinative. -00+  become +4+

When preponderantly harmonic a larger volume -00+ condenses to smaller volume or -11+ , etc.

When preponderantly enharmonic a smaller volume 4++ dissociates and expands to larger volume or -00+ , etc.


"Proportion belongs to geometry and harmony, measurement to the object and to arithmetic; and one necessitates the other. Proportion is the comparison of sizes; harmony is the relationship to measures; geometry is the function of numbers." [R. A. Schwaller de Lubicz, The Temple in Man, page 61]

See Also


6.8 - Proportionate and Relative Geometries
9.12 - Velocity of Sound and its Propagation Rate are Proportional
12.00 - Reciprocating Proportionality
3.13 - Reciprocals and Proportions of Motions and Substance
13.15 - Principle of Proportion
Fibonacci Relationships
Figure 6.17 - Areas and Volumes - Relations and Proportions
Figure 6.19 - Sphere to Cube - Relations and Proportions
Figure 14.10 - Proportionate Tonal Relations dictate Contraction or Expansion
Fundamental
Interval
Keynote
Law of Assimilation
Part 12 - Russells Locked Potentials
Portion
Reciprocating Proportionality
Rhythmic Balanced Interchange
Square Law
Table 2 - Controlling Modes and Proportions
Universal Ratios

Created by Dale Pond. Last Modification: Wednesday January 11, 2017 04:35:59 MST by Dale Pond.