Microtonal variations refer to the use of pitches that exist between the standard notes of the Western music scale. While traditional music typically divides an octave into 12 equal parts, microtonal music explores smaller intervals, allowing for a richer palette of sounds. This approach can create unique melodies and harmonies that are not possible within the conventional system. Musicians and composers, such as Harry Partch and Iannis Xenakis, have experimented with microtonal variations to expand musical expression. These variations can be found in various cultures and genres, including Indian classical music and Middle Eastern music, where different tuning systems are employed to achieve distinct tonal qualities.