Music and Mathematics

Abstract Chapter 6 explores connections between music and mathematics. The chapter includes rationales for integrating music and math, common links between the two disciplines, and a discussion of the Common Core State Standards for Mathematics and the National Core Arts Standards. Tables clearly show the standards that are incorporated throughout the lessons and examples. The chapter contains four detailed, full-length lessons that integrate music and mathematics. These include lessons exploring fractals and self-similarity in music and math; applying probability distributions and stochastic processes to musical composition; developing, conducting, and analyzing musical surveys; and creating water xylophones to explore ratios, frequency, and structure. The chapter ends with an inventory of ideas detailing nine additional lesson topics, specific teaching strategies, and recommended activities.