Meaning: The quote "The way that I got involved with microtonal music was, frankly, through jazz" by John Eaton is a testament to the influence of jazz music on the exploration and adoption of microtonal music. This quote reflects the intersection of different musical genres and the impact of one genre on the development of new musical techniques and styles.

Microtonal music refers to music that utilizes intervals smaller than the traditional Western twelve-tone equal temperament. In contrast to the standard Western music system, which divides the octave into twelve equal parts, microtonal music explores the use of intervals smaller than a semitone, allowing for a wider range of pitches and tonal possibilities. This exploration of non-traditional tuning systems and intervals has been a source of innovation and creativity in contemporary music.

John Eaton, the composer of this quote, was a prominent American microtonal composer known for his contributions to the field of electronic and computer music. Eaton's interest in microtonal music was sparked by his exposure to jazz music, a genre characterized by its improvisational nature, rhythmic complexity, and harmonic innovations. Jazz music, with its emphasis on individual expression and experimentation, provided Eaton with a fertile ground for exploring new tonal possibilities and expanding his musical horizons.

Eaton's statement suggests that the unconventional harmonic language and expressive freedom found in jazz music served as a catalyst for his exploration of microtonal music. Jazz musicians have long been known for their willingness to push the boundaries of traditional music theory, often incorporating dissonant intervals, non-standard scales, and unconventional harmonies into their improvisations. This spirit of exploration and innovation in jazz likely inspired Eaton to delve into the realm of microtonality, where he could further expand the palette of musical expression.

The influence of jazz on microtonal music can be observed in the work of other composers and musicians as well. For example, saxophonist and composer John Coltrane, known for his groundbreaking contributions to jazz, incorporated elements of microtonality into his music, experimenting with alternative scales and tonal structures. Coltrane's exploration of non-traditional harmonic concepts and his willingness to push the boundaries of conventional tonality have had a lasting impact on the development of microtonal music.

In addition to jazz, other musical traditions from around the world have also contributed to the exploration of microtonal music. For instance, various non-Western musical systems, such as those found in Indian classical music, Middle Eastern maqam music, and Indonesian gamelan music, have long utilized microtonal intervals and scales. The influence of these diverse musical traditions has enriched the global landscape of microtonal music, providing composers and musicians with a rich tapestry of tonal possibilities to draw upon.

The quote by John Eaton serves as a reminder of the interconnectedness of musical genres and the ways in which different musical traditions can inspire and influence one another. The fusion of jazz and microtonal music exemplifies the spirit of collaboration and cross-pollination that has fueled innovation in the world of music. By embracing the influence of jazz and other diverse musical traditions, composers and musicians continue to push the boundaries of tonality and expand the sonic possibilities available to them.

In conclusion, John Eaton's quote "The way that I got involved with microtonal music was, frankly, through jazz" encapsulates the symbiotic relationship between jazz music and the exploration of microtonal music. The quote highlights the impact of jazz on the development of microtonal music, showcasing the ways in which different musical genres can inspire and influence one another. Through the fusion of jazz's improvisational spirit and harmonic innovations with the exploration of non-traditional tuning systems, composers and musicians have expanded the sonic landscape of contemporary music, creating new avenues for creative expression and musical exploration.