New Music as Generalizable Tonal Predictions: Toward an Anti-Racist Framework.

This article examines the concept of tonality in music theory and its potential connection to systemic racism. The author, a music psychology researcher and immigrant, questions the racial implications of tonality and explores its definition as both an institution and a set of organizing principles. The article suggests alternative approaches to studying diverse musical systems and proposes the use of artificial tonal systems and grammars for future research. It also discusses the Bohlen-Pierce scale, a 13-step scale that challenges traditional Western tonality, and emphasizes the importance of curiosity, humility, and interdisciplinary collaboration in music-theoretical development. The author advocates for a more inclusive and forward-thinking approach to music studies. [Extracted from the article]