audio retrieval

Audio retrieval systems are used to recognize melodies. These systems, which are used in radio stations, for CD sales, on the Internet or in cell phones, support the rapid search for pieces of music on the basis of pre-sung melodies.

Special algorithms are used to break down the melody into individual notes, quantize them, compress them into a bar pattern, and compare them with stored melody sequences using recognition algorithms. The requester needs neither the music title nor the interpreter.

Such recognition systems, such as the QbH system, Query by Humming (QbH), can be used by producers to control commercially broadcast music programs and television programs for the purpose of royalty payments. Likewise, the detection systems can detect music piracy.