algorithm-music-transposition

"Music is math in motion." We improvise by determining key and time signatures in real time, using music and math.

The "key signature" / transposition" algorithm

This little algorithm uses "bit mapping/masking" theory to create visual representations of musical key signatures, and therefore transpose to any major or minor scale easily, bypassing "key signatures and memorization" altogether, and instead just using linear mathematical intervals.

Transposes any key to major (ionian) or minor (aeolian scales)

The basics of music theory and transposition are:

Either use math and music theory:

• use the musical interval system to determine the intervals of the mode;
• "shift" the "starting point" for ionian mode (the "tonic" or "root" note of the mode);
• determine the new notes from those intervals.

Or memorize the circle of fifths

• The circle of fifths represents a circular "ring buffer" or "doubly linked list..."
• This may also be done by memorizing the order of sharps and flats and iterating each time through those constructs whenever improvisation is required to find the correct key signature.

Wikipedia, Circle of Fifths