Just a quick microtuning tutorial. Are you using a synthesizer instrument which loads the TUN (.tun) tuning file format? Let’s learn how to create one of these .tun files using Scala.

Before you start, make sure you’re using a synthesiser that supports .tun files.

Step One – Create new scale, or load existing scale into Scala.

You could load a file from Scala’s huge scale database, or you could generate new pitches by typing a command into the command bar (at the bottom of the window). For example let’s create a 13 note equal scale (13-EDO):

equal 13

Tip: Type “show” to display your the tuning in the main window.

show

Step Two – Tell Scala what type of file to export.

Type the following into the command bar:

set synth 112

Scala will output “Synthesizer 112: TUN standard .tun format for many softsynths, via text file”. You’re doing OK.

Step Three – Export

Go to File > Export synth tuning. Or press Shift+Ctrl+T instead. Choose a new location to save the file. All done!

This is very similar to the process of making a MIDI Tuning Standard (MTS) tuning dump. To make an MTS .mid file, use “set synth 107” instead.

Jam away!

Untwelve.org has a yearly composition competition with the goal of promoting microtonal and xenharmonic music to new audiences. It’s an open competition with a cash prize, so if you are a musician you should get right on it…

22 July 2014—UnTwelve is happy to announce the 2014 edition of the Untwelve Microtonal Composition Competition. While you can start composing now, our submission engine will be accepting your entries on or before October 1st 2014. The competition will close at 11:59 pm Central Standard Time December 15th 2014. Monetary prize amounts to be announced at a future date.

Have a look at the competition announcement for more details.

Edit: The results from the 2014 Untwelve Composition Competition are in!