Lecture & Workshop Presentations Entire Contents Copyright © 1998–2010 CBH

COURSE PROPOSAL

TUNING WITHOUT TEARS

Aim
This is a workshop with high practical emphasis to introduce the reasons and methods of various tuning schemes for early keyboard instruments. All participants will understand the need for tempering as well as being able to tune several schemes by ear at the completion of the course.

Prior Knowledge or Experience Required
An eagerness to listen is the most important requirement for tuning. No previous experience in tuning musical instruments will be assumed. Because all the practical focus will be on earlier keyboard instruments, this course will also prove invaluable to modern piano tuners. “Perfect Pitch” is not required, but its implications for tuners and performers will be discussed if any participants are temporarily afflicted by it. Some musical knowledge about the notes of the scale and simple chord structure is expected: More advanced harmonic knowledge is not necessary because all music theory essential to the topic will be thoroughly explained. All participants are expected to have an interest in early keyboard music and have access to a suitable instrument to be able to practice the methods introduced.

Structure
An intensive full-day workshop. Because of the small group size, feedback will be encouraged throughout by way of informal question and answer sessions.

Topics covered

• Definition of terms: Tuning & Temperament
• Why Temperament is Necessary
• How Pythagoras Stuffed Up Western Music
• The Circle of Fifths
• About Beats and How to Hear Them
• Getting Started: Pitch Implications and How to Use a Tuning Fork
• Various Temperament Schemes: How to Tune Them, and Choosing Music to Match
• Just Intonation
• The Meantone Temperaments
• Well Temperaments
• Victorian Temperaments
• Evil (Equal) Temperament
• Key Color and the Doctrine of the Affects
• Practical Considerations for Tuning Harpsichords, Clavichords and Early Pianos
• Merits and Demerits of Electronic Tuners: How to use them Properly if you must
• Tuning the Harpsichord for Ensemble Use
• Where to Find Further Information

Course Notes
A multi-page handout including Temperament Worksheets and Bibliography will be provided to all participants.

Equipment required
Whiteboard & markers OR Overhead Projector & screen
Harpsichord

Suggested maximum participants 15

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