Topmusicanswers
Orchestras always tune to 'A', because every string instrument has an 'A' string. The standard pitch is A=440 Hertz (440 vibrations per second). ... This is because most of the band instruments are actually pitched in B flat, and so this is their natural tuning note.
- What is the significance of A440?
- Why do we tune to the oboe?
- Why do bands tune to B flat?
- What is frequency A440?
What is the significance of A440?
A440 (also known as Stuttgart pitch) is the musical pitch corresponding to an audio frequency of 440 Hz, which serves as a tuning standard for the musical note of A above middle C, or A4 in scientific pitch notation. It is standardized by the International Organization for Standardization as ISO 16.
Why do we tune to the oboe?
So why do today's orchestras tune to the oboe? The penetrating sound of the oboe stands out from the orchestra, so it's easy for all the musicians to hear. Its pitch is also steadier than strings, so it's a more reliable tuning source. ... So they became the standard instrument for tuning.
Why do bands tune to B flat?
The reason is that most wind instruments are transposing. The "open" note (no valves down, trombone in home position) is B flat. It is best to tune to this to set the main instrument tuning. If other notes are out of tune, then the valve slides (or on smaller instruments "lipping" the note) will bring them into tune.
What is frequency A440?
A440 (sometimes called A4) is the 440 Hz tone that serves as the internationally recognized standard for musical pitch. A440 is the musical note A above middle C. NIST has broadcast A440 from radio station WWV since 1936.
