Cool Careers: Meet Vijay Iyer, Math and Musical Innovator

"Music is intrinsically mathematical, and the two disciplines have a symbiotic relationship. Pitch, frequency, ratios, intervals, chords, proportion, balance—it can all be understood mathematically. Many math departments of big-name universities boast accomplished musicians."

Vijay Iyer is a Grammy-nominated composer-pianist who is considered to be one of the most celebrated jazz musicians. He currently teaches at Harvard University by emphasizing the math behind the music. 

He published an article called "Strength in Numbers: On Mathematics and Musical Rhythm," which was featured in The Best Writing on Mathematics 2010. He likes to use the Fibonacci number sequence to develop and structure his initial compositions. He and his fellow musicians then shape the notes and phrases through live improvisation. 

Check out his interview about his Trio here: 

You can check out this concert too!

You can read more about Vijay Iyer and his musical innovation using math here: //blog.mathnasium.com/cool-careers-celebrated-jazz-musician-vijay-iyer-on-the-importance-of-math-in-music

Looking for some math fun and more Cool Careers using math? Check out our Newsblog and then call us at Mathnasium of Cave Creek!