Some cultures consider there to be more than 12 notes. So there would be more than 12, but it would still be a much smaller number than considering any combination of bits as songs.
It is precisely 'traditional' magic, with its built-in explanation and fear of the natural world, which makes possible renewal and transformation. Magic delineates, it reduces the space for experiments to socially acceptable proportions. (CiB link)
Some cultures consider there
Some cultures consider there to be more than 12 notes. So there would be more than 12, but it would still be a much smaller number than considering any combination of bits as songs.