The cosmic keyboard: Tuning the calendar

Abstract

There are some quite remarkable parallels between the structure of the western calendar and the organisation of tonal music. Both are functions of attempts to order the cosmos which demonstrate the heavenly symbolism intrinsic to the most fundamental aspects of earthly existence, so often ignored by contemporary rational and materialist minds. Whether musical precepts affect our perceptions and priorities in interpreting the heavens, or the other way round, we should learn to acknowledge and cherish this relationship, which is recognised as quite acceptable in the equivalent contexts of non-western cultures. Recognition of such cosmic harmony should revive an essential missing dimension in our musical perceptions, and restore the idea of symbolically recreating heaven on earth.