Attempt at a New Theory of Music

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...it is permitted to consider sevenths, seconds, and countless other intervals that can be produced. Since there is a specific reason for this consensus The "consensus" refers to the universal human agreement on which sounds are harmonious, and it cannot be ascribed to custom alone, the true cause is rightly investigated. Next, there is a nearly similar reasoning regarding two or more consonances consonance: a combination of notes that sound pleasant or stable together following one another in succession; the sequence of these cannot please or displease without a rational basis. However, a greater attention and faculty of mind is required to derive pleasure from several successive consonances than from solitary ones. For, in order for individual consonances to please, it is sufficient if they are recognized and the order inherent within them is perceived; but if several consonances are brought forth in succession, it is additionally necessary for pleasing that the order contained within the sequence itself be understood. If, therefore, the multiplicity of these things—in which a certain order exists—is increased to such an extent that all things which [pertain to] order...