v0.39.0: Articulations, ramp(), drop numeral, djembe expansion

Co-Authored-By: Claude Opus 4.6 (1M context) <noreply@anthropic.com>

CHANGELOG.md

@@ -2,6 +2,47 @@
 
 All notable changes to PyTheory are documented here.
 
+## 0.39.0
+
+- **Dropped `numeral` dependency** — Roman numeral helpers inlined,
+  reducing supply chain surface (#47)
+- **`Part.ramp()`** — smooth parameter automation with 4 interpolation
+  curves (linear, ease_in, ease_out, ease_in_out)
+- **Articulations** — staccato, legato, marcato, tenuto, accent, fermata
+- **Dynamic curves** — crescendo(), decrescendo(), swell(), dynamics()
+- **`Part.hit()`** — individual drum sounds with articulation support
+- **Cross-choke drum damping** — djembe, hi-hats, cajón, doumbek
+- **5 new djembe patterns** + 3 djembe fills (30 fills total)
+- **6 new drum fills** — 3 cajón, 3 metal
+- **Duration arithmetic** — multiply, divide, add
+- **Improved djembe slap** synthesis
+- Song #31: Acid Tabla
+
+## 0.38.2
+
+- **`Part.ramp()`** — smooth parameter automation from current value to
+  target over a duration. Works for lowpass, reverb, distortion, chorus,
+  delay, volume, and any `.set()` parameter. Four interpolation curves:
+  linear, ease_in, ease_out, ease_in_out.
+
+## 0.38.1
+
+- **Dynamic curves** — `Part.crescendo()`, `Part.decrescendo()`,
+  `Part.swell()`, and `Part.dynamics()` for velocity ramps and custom
+  curves across a sequence of notes
+
+## 0.38.0
+
+- **Articulations** — `staccato`, `legato`, `marcato`, `tenuto`, `accent`,
+  `fermata` via `articulation=` on `Part.add()` and `Part.hold()`
+- **`Part.hit()`** — place individual drum sounds in a Part's note stream
+  with articulation, velocity, and effects support
+- **5 new djembe patterns** — dununba, tiriba, yankadi, djansa, mendiani
+- **3 new djembe fills** — djembe call, djembe roll, djembe break (30 fills total)
+- **Cross-choke drum damping** — striking one sound fades out related sounds
+  (djembe, hi-hats, cajón, doumbek)
+- **Improved djembe slap** — dry goatskin pop instead of snare-like noise
+
 ## 0.37.0
 
 - **5 new djembe patterns** — dununba, tiriba, yankadi, djansa, mendiani

docs/guide/sequencing.rst

@@ -47,6 +47,18 @@ A ``Duration`` represents a note length in beats (quarter note = 1 beat):
    >>> Duration.TRIPLET_QUARTER.value
    0.6666666666666666
 
+Duration supports arithmetic — multiply, divide, and add to create
+compound durations:
+
+.. code-block:: pycon
+
+   >>> Duration.WHOLE * 2
+   8.0
+   >>> Duration.HALF + Duration.QUARTER
+   3.0
+   >>> Duration.WHOLE / 2
+   2.0
+
 Time Signatures
 ---------------
 
@@ -399,6 +411,102 @@ The arpeggiator also accepts velocity:
 
    lead.arpeggio("Am", bars=2, pattern="up", velocity=80)
 
+Articulations
+-------------
+
+Articulations change *how* a note is played — its attack, duration, and
+weight. A staccato note is short and bouncy. A marcato note hits hard.
+A legato note melts into the next one. This is the difference between
+a melody that sounds like a MIDI file and one that sounds like a
+musician played it.
+
+Pass ``articulation=`` to ``Part.add()``:
+
+.. code-block:: python
+
+   piano.add("C4", Duration.QUARTER, articulation="staccato")   # short, bouncy
+   piano.add("D4", Duration.QUARTER, articulation="legato")     # smooth, overlaps
+   piano.add("E4", Duration.QUARTER, articulation="marcato")    # heavy accent
+   piano.add("F4", Duration.QUARTER, articulation="tenuto")     # held, soft attack
+   piano.add("G4", Duration.QUARTER, articulation="accent")     # louder
+   piano.add("C5", Duration.HALF, articulation="fermata")       # held longer
+
+What each articulation does:
+
+- **staccato** — plays ~40% of the note duration with a quick fade-out. Short and detached.
+- **legato** — extends ~15% into the next note. Smooth and connected.
+- **marcato** — 25% velocity boost + sharper attack. Heavy and accented.
+- **tenuto** — full duration with a softer attack ramp. Held and deliberate.
+- **accent** — 20% velocity boost, no duration change.
+- **fermata** — stretches the note 50% longer.
+
+Articulations work on ``Part.hold()`` and ``Part.hit()`` too.
+
+Dynamic Curves
+--------------
+
+Real music breathes — phrases get louder, get quieter, swell and
+recede. Dynamic curves let you shape the velocity across a sequence
+of notes instead of setting each one manually.
+
+.. code-block:: python
+
+   # Crescendo: quiet to loud
+   piano.crescendo(["C4","D4","E4","F4","G4","A4","B4","C5"],
+                   Duration.QUARTER, start_vel=30, end_vel=110)
+
+   # Decrescendo: loud to quiet
+   piano.decrescendo(["C5","B4","A4","G4","F4","E4","D4","C4"],
+                     Duration.QUARTER, start_vel=110, end_vel=30)
+
+   # Swell: up then back down (orchestral < > shape)
+   strings.swell(["C4","D4","E4","F4","G4","F4","E4","D4"],
+                 Duration.QUARTER, low_vel=35, peak_vel=110)
+
+   # Custom curve: explicit velocity per note
+   piano.dynamics(["C4","E4","G4","C5"], Duration.QUARTER,
+                  velocities=[50, 80, 110, 90])
+
+Four methods:
+
+- **crescendo()** — linear velocity ramp from ``start_vel`` to ``end_vel``.
+- **decrescendo()** — same thing, but typically loud to quiet.
+- **swell()** — ramps up to the midpoint, then back down. The classic
+  orchestral crescendo-decrescendo.
+- **dynamics()** — the general form. Pass a ``(start, end)`` tuple for
+  a linear ramp, or a list of velocities for a custom curve.
+
+All four accept ``articulation=`` to combine dynamics with articulations:
+
+.. code-block:: python
+
+   # Staccato crescendo — bouncy notes getting louder
+   piano.crescendo(["C4","E4","G4","C5","E5","G5","C6","E6"],
+                   Duration.EIGHTH, start_vel=40, end_vel=110,
+                   articulation="staccato")
+
+Part.hit() — Manual Drum Placement
+-----------------------------------
+
+The pattern system is great for grooves, but sometimes you want to
+place individual drum hits with full control — articulations, effects,
+and all. ``Part.hit()`` puts a drum sound into a Part's note stream:
+
+.. code-block:: python
+
+   from pytheory import DrumSound
+
+   kit = score.part("kit", synth="sine", volume=0.7)
+
+   kit.hit(DrumSound.KICK, Duration.QUARTER, articulation="accent")
+   kit.hit(DrumSound.CLOSED_HAT, Duration.EIGHTH, velocity=60)
+   kit.hit(DrumSound.SNARE, Duration.EIGHTH, articulation="marcato")
+
+Because hits go through the normal Part renderer, they get humanize,
+effects, and articulations for free. Use this for custom beats that
+don't fit a preset pattern, or for one-shot accent hits layered on
+top of a pattern.
+
 Swing and Groove
 ----------------
 
@@ -478,6 +586,50 @@ integrate naturally with the rest of the automation system:
    pad.rest(Duration.WHOLE)
    pad.rest(Duration.WHOLE)
 
+Parameter Ramps
+---------------
+
+Fades only control volume. ``Part.ramp()`` smoothly sweeps *any*
+parameter from its current value to a target — filters, reverb,
+distortion, chorus, delay, anything ``.set()`` accepts. This is how
+you build filter sweeps, gradual effect sends, and EDM buildups.
+
+.. code-block:: python
+
+   lead = score.part("lead", synth="saw", lowpass=200, lowpass_q=3.0)
+
+   # Open the filter over 8 bars
+   lead.ramp(over=Duration.WHOLE * 8, lowpass=8000)
+
+   # Ramp multiple params at once
+   pad.ramp(over=Duration.WHOLE * 4, reverb=0.5, chorus=0.3)
+
+   # Close the filter with distortion fading in
+   lead.ramp(over=Duration.WHOLE * 4, lowpass=400, distortion=0.5)
+
+Four interpolation curves:
+
+- **linear** — constant rate of change (default).
+- **ease_in** — starts slow, accelerates. Good for buildups.
+- **ease_out** — starts fast, decelerates. Good for releases.
+- **ease_in_out** — slow at both ends. Smooth and natural.
+
+.. code-block:: python
+
+   # EDM buildup: slow start, accelerating filter sweep
+   lead.ramp(over=Duration.WHOLE * 8, curve="ease_in", lowpass=8000)
+
+   # Smooth reverb wash fading in and settling
+   pad.ramp(over=Duration.WHOLE * 4, curve="ease_in_out", reverb=0.6)
+
+``ramp()`` generates automation points every quarter-beat by default.
+Set ``resolution=0.125`` for smoother curves (every 32nd note), or
+``resolution=1.0`` for lighter automation (every beat).
+
+Combine with ``lfo()`` for cyclic modulation and ``ramp()`` for
+one-shot sweeps — together they cover the full range of parameter
+automation.
+
 Humanize
 --------
 

examples/songs.py

@@ -2324,6 +2324,122 @@ def sitar_drone():
     play_song(score, "Sitar Drone — Raga Bhairav (22-Shruti JI, hold() polyphony)")
 
 
+def acid_tabla():
+    """Acid Tabla — 303 filter automation meets Indian percussion."""
+    score = Score("4/4", bpm=132)
+
+    # ── House drums ──
+    score.drums("house", repeats=20, fill="house", fill_every=8)
+    score.set_drum_effects(volume=0.45)
+
+    # ── 303 acid bass ──
+    acid = score.part("acid", synth="saw", volume=0.75,
+                      legato=True, glide=0.035,
+                      distortion=0.35, distortion_drive=4.5,
+                      saturation=0.15, humanize=0.05)
+
+    # Intro (4 bars): filter closed, high resonance
+    acid.set(lowpass=600, lowpass_q=12.0)
+    for _ in range(4):
+        for n in ["C3","C3","C2","C3","Eb3","C2","G2","C3"]:
+            acid.add(n, Duration.EIGHTH)
+
+    # Build (4 bars): filter opens
+    acid.ramp(over=Duration.WHOLE * 4, curve="ease_in", lowpass=4500)
+    for _ in range(4):
+        for n in ["C2","G2","C3","Eb3","C2","Bb2","G2","C3"]:
+            acid.add(n, Duration.EIGHTH)
+
+    # Peak (4 bars): wide open, wilder pattern
+    acid.set(lowpass=7000, lowpass_q=7.0)
+    for _ in range(2):
+        for n in ["C2","C3","Eb3","G3","C2","Bb2","G2","Eb3"]:
+            acid.add(n, Duration.EIGHTH)
+    for _ in range(2):
+        for n in ["C2","Eb3","C3","G3","Bb2","C3","G2","C2"]:
+            acid.add(n, Duration.EIGHTH)
+
+    # Tabla section (4 bars): filter pulls back
+    acid.set(lowpass=3000, lowpass_q=5.0)
+    for _ in range(4):
+        for n in ["C2","G2","C3","C2","Eb2","G2","Bb2","C2"]:
+            acid.add(n, Duration.EIGHTH)
+
+    # Outro (4 bars): filter closes
+    acid.ramp(over=Duration.WHOLE * 4, curve="ease_out", lowpass=400, lowpass_q=15.0)
+    for _ in range(4):
+        for n in ["C3","G2","C2","C3","C2","G2","Eb2","C2"]:
+            acid.add(n, Duration.EIGHTH)
+
+    # ── Tabla: enters bar 9, rides through to the end ──
+    tabla = score.part("tabla", synth="sine", volume=0.55, reverb=0.15)
+
+    # 8 bars rest
+    for _ in range(64):
+        tabla.rest(Duration.EIGHTH)
+
+    # Bars 9-12: keherwa groove
+    for _ in range(4):
+        tabla.hit(DrumSound.TABLA_DHA, Duration.EIGHTH, velocity=100, articulation="accent")
+        tabla.hit(DrumSound.TABLA_TIT, Duration.EIGHTH, velocity=55)
+        tabla.hit(DrumSound.TABLA_TIT, Duration.EIGHTH, velocity=50)
+        tabla.hit(DrumSound.TABLA_NA, Duration.EIGHTH, velocity=88)
+        tabla.hit(DrumSound.TABLA_TIN, Duration.EIGHTH, velocity=82)
+        tabla.hit(DrumSound.TABLA_TIT, Duration.EIGHTH, velocity=52)
+        tabla.hit(DrumSound.TABLA_DHA, Duration.EIGHTH, velocity=95, articulation="accent")
+        tabla.hit(DrumSound.TABLA_GE, Duration.EIGHTH, velocity=78)
+
+    # Bars 13-14: busier with 16ths
+    for _ in range(2):
+        tabla.hit(DrumSound.TABLA_DHA, Duration.EIGHTH, velocity=105, articulation="marcato")
+        tabla.hit(DrumSound.TABLA_TIT, Duration.SIXTEENTH, velocity=48)
+        tabla.hit(DrumSound.TABLA_TIT, Duration.SIXTEENTH, velocity=52)
+        tabla.hit(DrumSound.TABLA_NA, Duration.EIGHTH, velocity=90)
+        tabla.hit(DrumSound.TABLA_TIN, Duration.EIGHTH, velocity=85)
+        tabla.hit(DrumSound.TABLA_TIT, Duration.SIXTEENTH, velocity=48)
+        tabla.hit(DrumSound.TABLA_NA, Duration.SIXTEENTH, velocity=58)
+        tabla.hit(DrumSound.TABLA_DHA, Duration.EIGHTH, velocity=100, articulation="accent")
+        tabla.hit(DrumSound.TABLA_GE_BEND, Duration.EIGHTH, velocity=88)
+
+    # Bars 15-16: tihai crescendo ending
+    for vel in [85, 90, 95]:
+        tabla.hit(DrumSound.TABLA_DHA, Duration.EIGHTH, velocity=vel, articulation="accent")
+        tabla.hit(DrumSound.TABLA_TIT, Duration.SIXTEENTH, velocity=int(vel * 0.6))
+        tabla.hit(DrumSound.TABLA_NA, Duration.SIXTEENTH, velocity=int(vel * 0.75))
+    for vel in [100, 105, 110]:
+        tabla.hit(DrumSound.TABLA_DHA, Duration.EIGHTH, velocity=vel, articulation="marcato")
+        tabla.hit(DrumSound.TABLA_TIT, Duration.SIXTEENTH, velocity=int(vel * 0.55))
+        tabla.hit(DrumSound.TABLA_NA, Duration.SIXTEENTH, velocity=int(vel * 0.7))
+    tabla.hit(DrumSound.TABLA_DHA, Duration.QUARTER, velocity=127, articulation="fermata")
+    tabla.hit(DrumSound.TABLA_GE_BEND, Duration.QUARTER, velocity=110)
+    tabla.rest(Duration.HALF)
+
+    # Bars 17-20: tabla continues through outro, lighter
+    for _ in range(4):
+        tabla.hit(DrumSound.TABLA_DHA, Duration.EIGHTH, velocity=85, articulation="accent")
+        tabla.hit(DrumSound.TABLA_TIT, Duration.EIGHTH, velocity=45)
+        tabla.hit(DrumSound.TABLA_TIT, Duration.EIGHTH, velocity=42)
+        tabla.hit(DrumSound.TABLA_NA, Duration.EIGHTH, velocity=75)
+        tabla.hit(DrumSound.TABLA_TIN, Duration.EIGHTH, velocity=70)
+        tabla.hit(DrumSound.TABLA_TIT, Duration.EIGHTH, velocity=42)
+        tabla.hit(DrumSound.TABLA_DHA, Duration.EIGHTH, velocity=80)
+        tabla.hit(DrumSound.TABLA_GE, Duration.EIGHTH, velocity=65)
+
+    # ── Pad: enters at peak, fades during outro ──
+    pad = score.part("pad", synth="supersaw", envelope="pad", volume=0.0,
+                     reverb=0.4, chorus=0.2, detune=10, lowpass=2500)
+    for _ in range(32):
+        pad.rest(Duration.QUARTER)
+    pad.ramp(over=Duration.WHOLE * 2, volume=0.18)
+    for sym in ["Cm", "Ab", "Eb", "Bb"] * 3:
+        pad.add(Chord.from_symbol(sym), Duration.WHOLE)
+    pad.ramp(over=Duration.WHOLE * 2, curve="ease_out", volume=0.0)
+    for sym in ["Cm", "Cm"]:
+        pad.add(Chord.from_symbol(sym), Duration.WHOLE)
+
+    play_song(score, "Acid Tabla — 303 filter automation + tabla (ramp, articulations, Part.hit)")
+
+
 SONGS = {
     "1": ("Bossa Nova in A minor", bossa_nova_girl),
     "2": ("Bebop in Bb major", bebop_in_bb),
@@ -2355,6 +2471,7 @@ SONGS = {
     "28": ("Descent (Generative — different every time)", descent),
     "29": ("Pop Rock (I-V-vi-IV)", pop_rock),
     "30": ("Sitar Drone (Bhairav, hold() polyphony)", sitar_drone),
+    "31": ("Acid Tabla (303 + tabla, ramp, articulations)", acid_tabla),
 }
 
 if __name__ == "__main__":
@@ -2368,7 +2485,7 @@ if __name__ == "__main__":
             print(f"    {key:>2}. {name}")
 
         print()
-        choice = input("  Pick a song (1-30, or 'all'): ").strip()
+        choice = input("  Pick a song (1-31, or 'all'): ").strip()
         print()
 
         if choice == "all":

pyproject.toml

@@ -1,6 +1,6 @@
 [project]
 name = "pytheory"
-version = "0.37.0"
+version = "0.39.0"
 description = "Music Theory for Humans"
 readme = "README.md"
 license = "MIT"
@@ -21,7 +21,6 @@ classifiers = [
     "Programming Language :: Python :: 3.13",
 ]
 dependencies = [
-    "numeral",
     "sounddevice",
     "scipy",
 ]

pytheory/__init__.py

@@ -1,6 +1,6 @@
 """PyTheory: Music Theory for Humans."""
 
-__version__ = "0.37.0"
+__version__ = "0.39.0"
 
 from .tones import Tone, Interval
 from .systems import System, SYSTEMS, TET

pytheory/_statics.py

@@ -2,6 +2,43 @@ import math
 
 REFERENCE_A = 440
 
+# ── Roman numeral helpers (replaces `numeral` package) ───────────────────
+
+_ROMAN_MAP = [
+    (1000, "M"), (900, "CM"), (500, "D"), (400, "CD"),
+    (100, "C"), (90, "XC"), (50, "L"), (40, "XL"),
+    (10, "X"), (9, "IX"), (5, "V"), (4, "IV"), (1, "I"),
+]
+
+_ROMAN_VALUES = {
+    "I": 1, "V": 5, "X": 10, "L": 50, "C": 100, "D": 500, "M": 1000,
+}
+
+
+def int2roman(n: int) -> str:
+    """Convert an integer to an uppercase Roman numeral string."""
+    result = []
+    for value, numeral in _ROMAN_MAP:
+        while n >= value:
+            result.append(numeral)
+            n -= value
+    return "".join(result)
+
+
+def roman2int(s: str) -> int:
+    """Convert a Roman numeral string (case-insensitive) to an integer."""
+    s = s.upper()
+    total = 0
+    prev = 0
+    for ch in reversed(s):
+        val = _ROMAN_VALUES.get(ch, 0)
+        if val < prev:
+            total -= val
+        else:
+            total += val
+        prev = val
+    return total
+
 # Index of C in the Western tone list (A=0, A#=1, B=2, C=3, ...).
 # Scientific pitch notation changes octave at C, not A, so this offset
 # is needed for all octave arithmetic.

pytheory/chords.py

@@ -849,7 +849,7 @@ class Chord:
             >>> Chord([D4, F4, A4]).analyze("C")
             'ii'
         """
-        import numeral as numeral_mod
+        from ._statics import int2roman
         from .scales import TonedScale
         from .systems import SYSTEMS
         from .tones import Tone
@@ -874,7 +874,7 @@ class Chord:
         scale_names = [t.name for t in scale.tones[:-1]]
 
         def _build_numeral(root, quality, degree_idx, prefix=""):
-            numeral_str = numeral_mod.int2roman(degree_idx + 1, only_ascii=True)
+            numeral_str = int2roman(degree_idx + 1)
             suffix = ""
             if "minor" in quality:
                 numeral_str = numeral_str.lower()

pytheory/play.py

@@ -4145,10 +4145,48 @@ def _render_notes_to_buf(notes, buf, samples_per_beat, total_samples,
                 start += _rnd.randint(-max_offset, max_offset)
                 start = max(0, start)
             dur_ms = note.beats * 60_000 / bpm
+            # Articulation: adjust duration and velocity
+            art = getattr(note, 'articulation', '')
+            art_vel_mult = 1.0
+            art_attack_mult = 1.0  # multiplier for envelope attack
+            if art == 'staccato':
+                dur_ms *= 0.4  # short and bouncy
+            elif art == 'legato':
+                dur_ms *= 1.15  # slight overlap into next note
+            elif art == 'marcato':
+                art_vel_mult = 1.25  # heavier
+                art_attack_mult = 0.3  # sharper attack
+            elif art == 'tenuto':
+                art_attack_mult = 1.8  # softer attack, full duration
+            elif art == 'accent':
+                art_vel_mult = 1.2
+            elif art == 'fermata':
+                dur_ms *= 1.5  # held longer
             n_samples = int(SAMPLE_RATE * dur_ms / 1000)
             if start + n_samples > total_samples:
                 n_samples = total_samples - start
             if n_samples > 0 and start >= 0:
+                # Drum hit via Part.hit() — use drum synth directly
+                from .rhythm import _DrumTone
+                if isinstance(note.tone, _DrumTone):
+                    drum_wave = _render_drum_hit(note.tone.sound.value, n_samples)
+                    mixed = drum_wave.astype(numpy.float32)
+                    # Staccato fade-out for drums
+                    if art == 'staccato':
+                        fade_len = min(int(SAMPLE_RATE * 0.01), len(mixed))
+                        if fade_len > 0:
+                            mixed[-fade_len:] *= numpy.linspace(1.0, 0.0, fade_len).astype(numpy.float32)
+                    vel = getattr(note, 'velocity', 100)
+                    vel = min(127, int(vel * art_vel_mult))
+                    if humanize > 0.0:
+                        vel_jitter = int(humanize * 15)
+                        vel = max(1, min(127, vel + _rnd.randint(-vel_jitter, vel_jitter)))
+                    vel_scale = vel / 127.0
+                    end = min(start + len(mixed), total_samples)
+                    buf[start:end] += mixed[:end - start] * volume * vel_scale
+                    if not getattr(note, '_hold', False):
+                        beat_pos += note.beats
+                    continue
                 # Get pitches
                 if hasattr(note.tone, 'tones'):
                     pitches = [t.pitch(temperament=temperament, reference_pitch=reference_pitch) for t in note.tone.tones]
@@ -4249,11 +4287,18 @@ def _render_notes_to_buf(notes, buf, samples_per_beat, total_samples,
                 if noise_mix > 0:
                     noise = numpy.random.uniform(-1, 1, n_samples).astype(numpy.float32)
                     mixed = mixed * (1.0 - noise_mix * 0.5) + noise * noise_mix * 0.5
-                # Amplitude envelope
-                if a > 0 or d > 0 or s < 1.0 or r > 0:
-                    mixed = _apply_envelope(mixed, a, d, s, r)
-                # Per-note velocity
+                # Amplitude envelope (articulation may adjust attack)
+                art_a = a * art_attack_mult
+                if art_a > 0 or d > 0 or s < 1.0 or r > 0:
+                    mixed = _apply_envelope(mixed, art_a, d, s, r)
+                # Staccato: apply a quick fade-out at the end
+                if art == 'staccato':
+                    fade_len = min(int(SAMPLE_RATE * 0.01), len(mixed))
+                    if fade_len > 0:
+                        mixed[-fade_len:] *= numpy.linspace(1.0, 0.0, fade_len).astype(numpy.float32)
+                # Per-note velocity (articulation may boost)
                 vel = getattr(note, 'velocity', 100)
+                vel = min(127, int(vel * art_vel_mult))
                 if humanize > 0.0:
                     vel_jitter = int(humanize * 15)
                     vel = max(1, min(127, vel + _rnd.randint(-vel_jitter, vel_jitter)))

pytheory/rhythm.py

@@ -449,6 +449,7 @@ class Note:
     bend: float = 0.0
     bend_type: str = "smooth"  # "smooth" (log), "linear", "late"
     lyric: str = ""  # syllable for vocal synth
+    articulation: str = ""  # "", "staccato", "legato", "marcato", "tenuto", "accent", "fermata"
     _hold: bool = False  # if True, don't advance beat position
 
     @property
@@ -565,6 +566,17 @@ class DrumSound(Enum):
     METAL_HAT = 107      # tight, short, precise
 
 
+class _DrumTone:
+    """Wrapper so a DrumSound can be placed in a Part's note list."""
+    __slots__ = ('sound',)
+
+    def __init__(self, sound: DrumSound):
+        self.sound = sound
+
+    def pitch(self, **kwargs):
+        return -self.sound.value
+
+
 class _Hit:
     """A single drum hit at a specific position in a pattern."""
     __slots__ = ("sound", "position", "velocity")
@@ -2624,7 +2636,8 @@ class Part:
         self._automation: list[tuple[float, dict]] = []  # (beat, {param: value})
 
     def add(self, tone_or_string, duration=Duration.QUARTER, *, velocity: int = 100,
-            bend: float = 0.0, bend_type: str = "smooth", lyric: str = "") -> "Part":
+            bend: float = 0.0, bend_type: str = "smooth", lyric: str = "",
+            articulation: str = "") -> "Part":
         """Add a note. Accepts Tone/Chord objects or note strings like ``"E5"``.
 
         Duration can be a ``Duration`` enum or a raw float (beats).
@@ -2632,6 +2645,10 @@ class Part:
         Bend specifies a pitch bend in semitones over the note duration
         (e.g. ``bend=2`` bends up a whole step, ``bend=-1`` bends down
         a half step). Used for guitar bends, sitar meends, slides.
+        Articulation changes how the note is played: ``"staccato"`` (short,
+        ~40% duration), ``"legato"`` (overlaps next note), ``"marcato"``
+        (heavy accent), ``"tenuto"`` (full duration, soft attack),
+        ``"accent"`` (velocity bump), ``"fermata"`` (held ~50% longer).
 
         Returns self for chaining.
         """
@@ -2642,11 +2659,13 @@ class Part:
             duration = _RawDuration(duration)
         self.notes.append(Note(tone=tone_or_string, duration=duration,
                                velocity=velocity, bend=bend,
-                               bend_type=bend_type, lyric=lyric))
+                               bend_type=bend_type, lyric=lyric,
+                               articulation=articulation))
         return self
 
     def hold(self, tone_or_string, duration=Duration.QUARTER, *, velocity: int = 100,
-             bend: float = 0.0, bend_type: str = "smooth", lyric: str = "") -> "Part":
+             bend: float = 0.0, bend_type: str = "smooth", lyric: str = "",
+             articulation: str = "") -> "Part":
         """Add a note without advancing the beat position.
 
         The note plays at the current position but the next note
@@ -2671,9 +2690,168 @@ class Part:
             duration = _RawDuration(duration)
         self.notes.append(Note(tone=tone_or_string, duration=duration,
                                velocity=velocity, bend=bend,
-                               bend_type=bend_type, lyric=lyric, _hold=True))
+                               bend_type=bend_type, lyric=lyric,
+                               articulation=articulation, _hold=True))
         return self
 
+    def hit(self, sound, duration=Duration.EIGHTH, *, velocity: int = 100,
+            articulation: str = "") -> "Part":
+        """Add a drum hit to this part.
+
+        Places a drum sound into the note stream so it goes through the
+        normal renderer — meaning articulations, humanize, and effects
+        all work on individual hits.
+
+        Args:
+            sound: A :class:`DrumSound` enum member (e.g. ``DrumSound.KICK``).
+            duration: How long the hit occupies in the timeline (default 8th note).
+            velocity: Hit loudness 1-127.
+            articulation: ``"accent"``, ``"staccato"``, ``"marcato"``, etc.
+
+        Example::
+
+            >>> drums = score.part("kit", synth="sine")
+            >>> drums.hit(DrumSound.KICK, Duration.QUARTER, articulation="accent")
+            >>> drums.hit(DrumSound.CLOSED_HAT, Duration.EIGHTH)
+        """
+        if isinstance(duration, (int, float)):
+            duration = _RawDuration(duration)
+        self.notes.append(Note(tone=_DrumTone(sound), duration=duration,
+                               velocity=velocity, articulation=articulation))
+        return self
+
+    def crescendo(self, notes, duration=Duration.QUARTER, *,
+                  start_vel: int = 40, end_vel: int = 110,
+                  articulation: str = "") -> "Part":
+        """Add notes with velocity ramping up (getting louder).
+
+        Args:
+            notes: List of note strings (e.g. ``["C4", "D4", "E4"]``).
+            duration: Duration for each note.
+            start_vel: Starting velocity (quiet).
+            end_vel: Ending velocity (loud).
+            articulation: Optional articulation for all notes.
+
+        Example::
+
+            >>> piano.crescendo(["C4","D4","E4","F4","G4"], Duration.QUARTER,
+            ...                 start_vel=40, end_vel=110)
+        """
+        return self.dynamics(notes, duration, velocities=(start_vel, end_vel),
+                             articulation=articulation)
+
+    def decrescendo(self, notes, duration=Duration.QUARTER, *,
+                    start_vel: int = 110, end_vel: int = 40,
+                    articulation: str = "") -> "Part":
+        """Add notes with velocity ramping down (getting quieter).
+
+        Args:
+            notes: List of note strings.
+            duration: Duration for each note.
+            start_vel: Starting velocity (loud).
+            end_vel: Ending velocity (quiet).
+            articulation: Optional articulation for all notes.
+
+        Example::
+
+            >>> piano.decrescendo(["G4","F4","E4","D4","C4"], Duration.QUARTER,
+            ...                   start_vel=110, end_vel=40)
+        """
+        return self.dynamics(notes, duration, velocities=(start_vel, end_vel),
+                             articulation=articulation)
+
+    def dynamics(self, notes, duration=Duration.QUARTER, *,
+                 velocities=None, articulation: str = "") -> "Part":
+        """Add notes with a velocity curve.
+
+        Args:
+            notes: List of note strings or Tone/Chord objects.
+            duration: Duration for each note (or list of durations).
+            velocities: Velocity curve — either a ``(start, end)`` tuple
+                for a linear ramp, or a list of ints (one per note).
+            articulation: Optional articulation for all notes (or list).
+
+        Example::
+
+            >>> # Linear ramp
+            >>> piano.dynamics(["C4","E4","G4","C5"], Duration.QUARTER,
+            ...                velocities=(50, 120))
+            >>> # Custom curve (swell and fade)
+            >>> piano.dynamics(["C4","D4","E4","F4","G4","F4","E4","D4"],
+            ...                Duration.EIGHTH,
+            ...                velocities=[50, 70, 90, 110, 110, 90, 70, 50])
+        """
+        n = len(notes)
+        if n == 0:
+            return self
+
+        # Resolve velocities
+        if velocities is None:
+            vels = [100] * n
+        elif isinstance(velocities, (tuple, list)) and len(velocities) == 2 and isinstance(velocities[0], (int, float)):
+            # (start, end) tuple — linear ramp
+            start_v, end_v = velocities
+            if n == 1:
+                vels = [int(start_v)]
+            else:
+                vels = [int(start_v + (end_v - start_v) * i / (n - 1))
+                        for i in range(n)]
+        else:
+            vels = list(velocities)
+
+        # Resolve durations
+        if isinstance(duration, (list, tuple)):
+            durs = list(duration)
+        else:
+            durs = [duration] * n
+
+        # Resolve articulations
+        if isinstance(articulation, (list, tuple)):
+            arts = list(articulation)
+        else:
+            arts = [articulation] * n
+
+        for note, vel, dur, art in zip(notes, vels, durs, arts):
+            vel = max(1, min(127, vel))
+            self.add(note, dur, velocity=vel, articulation=art)
+
+        return self
+
+    def swell(self, notes, duration=Duration.QUARTER, *,
+              low_vel: int = 40, peak_vel: int = 110,
+              articulation: str = "") -> "Part":
+        """Add notes that swell up then fade back down (< > shape).
+
+        The velocity ramps up to the midpoint then back down,
+        creating the classic orchestral swell.
+
+        Args:
+            notes: List of note strings.
+            duration: Duration for each note.
+            low_vel: Velocity at start and end.
+            peak_vel: Velocity at the peak (midpoint).
+            articulation: Optional articulation.
+
+        Example::
+
+            >>> strings.swell(["C4","D4","E4","F4","G4","F4","E4","D4"],
+            ...               Duration.QUARTER, low_vel=40, peak_vel=110)
+        """
+        n = len(notes)
+        if n <= 2:
+            return self.dynamics(notes, duration, velocities=[peak_vel] * n,
+                                 articulation=articulation)
+        mid = n // 2
+        vels = []
+        for i in range(n):
+            if i <= mid:
+                v = low_vel + (peak_vel - low_vel) * i / mid
+            else:
+                v = peak_vel - (peak_vel - low_vel) * (i - mid) / (n - 1 - mid)
+            vels.append(int(v))
+        return self.dynamics(notes, duration, velocities=vels,
+                             articulation=articulation)
+
     def set(self, **params) -> "Part":
         """Change effect parameters at the current beat position.
 
@@ -2757,6 +2935,79 @@ class Part:
         points = sorted(set(beat for beat, _ in self._automation))
         return points
 
+    def ramp(self, over: float = 4.0, resolution: float = 0.25,
+             curve: str = "linear", **params) -> "Part":
+        """Smoothly ramp parameters from their current values to new targets.
+
+        Generates interpolated automation points — like turning a knob
+        gradually instead of jumping to a new position. Works for any
+        parameter that ``.set()`` accepts.
+
+        Args:
+            over: Duration of the ramp in beats (default 4.0 = 1 bar).
+                Use ``Duration.WHOLE * 4`` for a 4-bar ramp, etc.
+            resolution: How often to insert points, in beats (default 0.25).
+                Lower = smoother but more points.
+            curve: Interpolation shape — ``"linear"`` (default),
+                ``"ease_in"`` (slow start, fast end),
+                ``"ease_out"`` (fast start, slow end),
+                ``"ease_in_out"`` (slow start and end).
+            **params: Target values for any parameter. The ramp starts
+                from the parameter's current value at this beat position.
+
+        Returns:
+            Self for chaining.
+
+        Example::
+
+            >>> lead = score.part("lead", synth="saw", lowpass=200)
+            >>> # Open the filter over 4 bars
+            >>> lead.ramp(over=Duration.WHOLE * 4, lowpass=8000)
+            >>> # Fade reverb in over 2 bars
+            >>> pad.ramp(over=Duration.WHOLE * 2, reverb=0.5)
+            >>> # Multiple params at once with easing
+            >>> lead.ramp(over=8.0, curve="ease_in", lowpass=6000, distortion=0.4)
+        """
+        current_beat = sum(n.beats for n in self.notes)
+
+        # Map param names to internal names
+        param_map = {
+            "reverb": "reverb_mix", "delay": "delay_mix",
+            "distortion": "distortion_mix", "chorus": "chorus_mix",
+            "phaser": "phaser_mix",
+        }
+
+        # Get current values for each param
+        current_params = self._get_params_at(current_beat)
+        ramps = {}
+        for param, target in params.items():
+            internal = param_map.get(param, param)
+            start = current_params.get(internal, getattr(self, internal, 0.0))
+            ramps[internal] = (float(start), float(target))
+
+        # Generate interpolated points
+        beat = 0.0
+        while beat <= over:
+            t = beat / over if over > 0 else 1.0
+            t = max(0.0, min(1.0, t))
+
+            # Apply curve
+            if curve == "ease_in":
+                t = t * t
+            elif curve == "ease_out":
+                t = 1.0 - (1.0 - t) ** 2
+            elif curve == "ease_in_out":
+                t = 3 * t * t - 2 * t * t * t
+
+            point = {}
+            for internal, (start, end) in ramps.items():
+                point[internal] = start + (end - start) * t
+
+            self._automation.append((current_beat + beat, point))
+            beat += resolution
+
+        return self
+
     def lfo(self, param: str, *, rate: float = 0.5, min: float = 0.0,
             max: float = 1.0, bars: float = 4, shape: str = "sine",
             resolution: float = 0.25) -> "Part":

pytheory/scales.py

@@ -2,8 +2,6 @@ from __future__ import annotations
 
 from typing import Optional, Union
 
-import numeral
-
 from .systems import SYSTEMS, System
 from .tones import Tone
 
@@ -49,7 +47,8 @@ class Scale:
     def __repr__(self) -> str:
         r = []
         for (i, tone) in enumerate(self.tones):
-            degree = numeral.int2roman(i + 1, only_ascii=True)
+            from ._statics import int2roman
+            degree = int2roman(i + 1)
             r += [f"{degree}={tone.full_name}"]
 
         r = " ".join(r)
@@ -200,7 +199,7 @@ class Scale:
             >>> scale.progression("I", "IV", "V", "I")
             [<Chord (C,E,G)>, <Chord (F,A,C)>, <Chord (G,B,D)>, <Chord (C,E,G)>]
         """
-        import numeral as numeral_mod
+        from ._statics import roman2int
         chords = []
         for num in numerals:
             is_seventh = num.endswith("7")
@@ -213,7 +212,7 @@ class Scale:
             elif clean.startswith("#") and len(clean) > 1:
                 clean = clean[1:]
                 flat_offset = 1  # one semitone up
-            degree = numeral_mod.roman2int(clean.upper()) - 1
+            degree = roman2int(clean.upper()) - 1
             if is_seventh:
                 chord = self.seventh(degree)
             else:
@@ -406,7 +405,8 @@ class Scale:
         if isinstance(item, str):
             degrees = []
             for (i, tone) in enumerate(self.tones):
-                degrees.append(numeral.int2roman(i + 1, only_ascii=True))
+                from ._statics import int2roman
+                degrees.append(int2roman(i + 1))
 
             if item in degrees:
                 item = degrees.index(item)

uv.lock

@@ -486,14 +486,6 @@ wheels = [
     { url = "https://files.pythonhosted.org/packages/d3/ac/686789b9145413f1a61878c407210e41bfdb097976864e0913078b24098c/myst_parser-5.0.0-py3-none-any.whl", hash = "sha256:ab31e516024918296e169139072b81592336f2fef55b8986aa31c9f04b5f7211", size = 84533, upload-time = "2026-01-15T09:08:16.788Z" },
 ]
 
-[[package]]
-name = "numeral"
-version = "0.1.0.17"
-source = { registry = "https://pypi.org/simple" }
-wheels = [
-    { url = "https://files.pythonhosted.org/packages/17/0d/ac6a186e169fcbdfea316f78fb5e34981bcf8d5c1d7cc8b6581f597e1e4c/numeral-0.1.0.17-py2.py3-none-any.whl", hash = "sha256:7dff0c1efb9b3655c9c1dc93b4666993741b15abcac0dc01dcb96b21cc20f6ae", size = 22066, upload-time = "2020-04-12T08:24:59.129Z" },
-]
-
 [[package]]
 name = "numpy"
 version = "2.2.6"
@@ -698,10 +690,9 @@ wheels = [
 
 [[package]]
 name = "pytheory"
-version = "0.37.0"
+version = "0.39.0"
 source = { editable = "." }
 dependencies = [
-    { name = "numeral" },
     { name = "scipy", version = "1.15.3", source = { registry = "https://pypi.org/simple" }, marker = "python_full_version < '3.11'" },
     { name = "scipy", version = "1.17.1", source = { registry = "https://pypi.org/simple" }, marker = "python_full_version >= '3.11'" },
     { name = "sounddevice" },
@@ -721,7 +712,6 @@ docs = [
 
 [package.metadata]
 requires-dist = [
-    { name = "numeral" },
     { name = "scipy" },
     { name = "sounddevice" },
 ]