Here are two compositions where a solo instrument plays against a single sine wave to produce various different beating tones. The composer, Alvin Lucier, frequently makes clear use of acoustic phenomena in his compositions.
The first piece is for clarinet and a sine wave at approximately 280 Hz. Between silences, the clarinet holds steady tones against the tone that are only a few Hz above or below 280 Hz.
The second piece is for cello and a sine wave at approximately 82 Hz. The cello holds steady tones with no vibrato against the tone that are only a few Hz above or below 82 Hz. Note how big the standing waves are in space and how hard it can be to find an optimal listening position. Also notice, how quiet instrument is. You can usually notice the beating before you notice the instrument's timbre.
Alvin Lucier:
Still and Moving Lines in Families of Hyperbolas
#1 for clarinet
#11 for violoncello
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