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Music theory basics · updated 2026-08-16

OVERTONE SERIES

Almost every pitched sound contains a fundamental plus quieter harmonics above it. Their relative levels are most of what we call timbre.

Close-up of handwritten sheet music and a pencil on a piano music desk

SOURCES AND CITATIONS

Free, primary references for overtone series — standards bodies, manufacturers, government offices and university course material.

RELATED TERMS IN MUSIC THEORY BASICS

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