Prerequisites: physics, music theory
Common misconception: play an A on the violin and the frequency is 440 Hz.
Almost true.
Most sounds are actually a blend of many frequencies above the fundamental frequency. Timbre, or colour, is the difference in harmonic distribution that gives each musical instrument its own distinct sound. Timbre can also vary between each person's voice, or subtly between each violin.
Recall the formula f = n*(v/2L) where
f = frequency
n = harmonic number
v = speed of sound
l = length of string or open pipe
and the fundamental frequency is when n = 1
Here is what I mean by "a blend of many frequencies". The higher frequencies are harmonics. The fundamental is most amplified and so the most noticeable.
This reminds me of overtone singing (if you have no idea what that is: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7zZainT9v6Q). The funny whistling sound are overtones , or harmonics, and the lowest note is the fundamental. Frequency ratios early in the harmonic series are easier to produce than ratios further down the series. Meaning, consonant intervals have stronger resonance from constructive interference, while dissonant intervals sound fainter from destructive interference.
Not all of us regard the human body as a musical instrument. There are many hollows in the human body that allow strong vibration, which is needed for harmonics to be noticeable at all. Resonance is not only established with others, but with the self as well when you let your other harmonics ring. Maybe not necessarily to produce overtones, but to build a richer timbre.
Consider the fact that organisms are designed according to their functions. What function does singing serve humans? Why is music even a thing? For me, music is more than an art or a recreation. There is something transcendental about the way music works. I am still figuring things out here..
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