Spectral correlates of timbral semantics relating to the pipe organ

This paper explores whether words used to describe pipe organ ensembles have correlation with specific spectral features. Similar previous work has concentrated on single pipes in anechoic conditions (e.g. Rioux, 2001). This work examines pipe organ ensembles as a cohesive whole. Ninety-nine English-speaking subjects were asked to describe recordings of pipe organs. From the many timbral adjectives they used, seven words were chosen that were useful, unambiguous and frequently used. In two experiments, guided by previous studies of timbral adjectives in other timbre spaces, the spectral correlates and common understanding of these words was examined. All five words that exhibited common understanding had spectral correlates that to some degree supported theories suggested by previous research. The earlier part of this work was presented in Disley & Hpward (2003). This research has since been developed and refined, with particular emphasis on careful selection of adjectives for study and detailed consideration of steady-state spectral correlates. Most clearly defined existing theories of spectral correlation appear to hold true in this complex timbre space. This paper was presented at the Joint Baltic -Nordic Acoustics Meeting (BNAM 2004) in Mariehamn, Åland, June 8-10, 2004.