1. What is a Pitch Class Set Calculator?

Definition: This calculator determines the pitch class set (PCS) value from a given MIDI note number using modulo 12 arithmetic.

Purpose: It helps musicians and music theorists identify the pitch class of any note in the equal temperament system.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

Where:

• \( PCS \) — Pitch class set value (0-11)
• \( n \) — MIDI note number (0-127)

Explanation: The modulo operation wraps the note number around the 12-note chromatic scale, giving the pitch class independent of octave.

3. Importance of Pitch Class Sets

Details: PCS is fundamental in atonal and serial music theory, helping analyze and classify pitch collections without regard to octave or enharmonic spelling.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter any MIDI note number (0-127). The calculator will return the corresponding pitch class (0=C, 1=C#, 2=D, etc.).

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What does a PCS value of 0 represent?
A: PCS 0 represents the pitch class C in any octave.

Q2: How are enharmonic equivalents handled?
A: The calculator uses equal temperament where enharmonic equivalents (like C# and Db) have the same PCS value (1).

Q3: What's the maximum MIDI note number?
A: Standard MIDI range is 0-127, but the calculator will work with any positive integer.

Q4: How is this different from note names?
A: PCS abstracts away octave information and specific spelling (sharp/flat) to focus on the fundamental pitch class.

Q5: Can I calculate PCS for multiple notes?
A: This calculator handles single notes. For sets of notes, each would need to be calculated individually.