Slonimsky Thesaurus Pdf [updated] -

Here is the honest answer: (Schirmer/AMP holds the rights). While you will find scanned copies floating around on obscure Russian sites or academic repositories, most of those are either:

First, a quick reality check. Published in 1947, this book is not a light read. There are no chord charts or pop songs. Instead, Slonimsky—a Russian-born composer, conductor, and lexicographer—created a .

Dividing the octave into equal parts (two tritones or three ditones) to create symmetrical foundations. slonimsky thesaurus pdf

Here's an overview of the Slonimsky Thesaurus:

The Thesaurus of Scales and Melodic Patterns by Nicolas Slonimsky, first published in 1947, is a monumental reference work in music theory that catalogs nearly every conceivable musical scale and melodic progression. It is widely used by composers and improvisers to break away from traditional tonal habits. Overview of the Slonimsky Thesaurus The "Thesaurus" is essentially a mathematical approach to melody. Instead of focusing on traditional Western scales (like Major or Minor), Slonimsky used a system of Here is the honest answer: (Schirmer/AMP holds the rights)

Found at the end of the book, these help musicians identify which harmonies pair with specific synthetic scales. The Coltrane and Zappa Connection

If you’ve landed here by typing into Google, you’re likely one of three people: There are no chord charts or pop songs

If you are cash-strapped, here is how to actually use the Slonimsky system right now without breaking the law.

Because the book is highly technical, most musicians follow these practical steps:

The Slonimsky Thesaurus has various applications in music composition, education, and research: