Microtonal systems are musical frameworks that use intervals smaller than the traditional semitone found in Western music. These systems allow for a wider range of pitches, enabling composers and musicians to explore unique sounds and harmonies. Various cultures, such as those in India and Middle Eastern music, have long utilized microtonal scales, which can include quarter tones and other divisions of the octave. In microtonal music, the tuning systems can vary significantly, leading to distinct musical expressions. Instruments like the oud or sitar are often designed to accommodate these smaller intervals. The exploration of microtonality has gained popularity in contemporary music, influencing genres like jazz and experimental music.