Discussion on Southeast Asian musical tuning systems with Joe Peters (SG), Khyam Allami (UK/IQ), Ros Phoasavadi (TH), Shzr Ee Tan (SG/UK)

The global standardisation of tuning and the prevalence of the twelve-tone equal temperament musical system that divides the octave into twelve parts, has been relatively recent. Even Beethoven's tuning fork was tuned to 455.4 Hz, over half a semitone higher than today's standard “A" pitch of 440 Hz. But the steady prevalence of instrument mass production, software, and mass media ascribing to these standards since the early 20th century have trained the global ear to this default. 
 
Not all musical cultures work this way. Relative and movable pitch systems exist for instruments and musical systems in a variety of cultures, including those in Southeast Asia. Names for notes and their rich histories of practice exist between and beyond the twelve tone musical standard.
 
What are the issues and nuances of tuning standardisation with respect to Southeast Asian musical systems? How can new technologies be used as a means to preserve intangible musical heritage, such as tuning systems? What are the implications of global access to these musical systems, in the era of open source culture versus cultural appropriation?
 
This panel is organised as part of a Common Tonalities, a project that explores Southeast Asian scales and tuning systems for the creation of new music.

With Joe Peters (SG), Khyam Allami(UK/IQ), Ros Phoasavadi (TH), Shzr Ee Tan (SG/UK)