Tuning
The process of adjusting an instrument so its pitches match a chosen reference standard.
Category
pitch
Pronunciation
/ˈtjuːnɪŋ/
Origin
Old English (tunian)
Length
166 words · 1 min read
About Tuning
Tuning ensures that the notes an instrument produces correspond to the intended frequencies, allowing musicians to play in tune with one another. The most common modern reference is A4 = 440 Hz, though historical and regional variations exist.
More pitch terms
Overtone
View all pitchterms →A higher frequency that sounds simultaneously above a fundamental pitch, shaping the tone colour of a note.
Pitch ClassA group containing all notes that share the same letter name regardless of octave, such as every C on the keyboard.
TessituraThe range of pitches within which a vocal or instrumental part predominantly sits, distinct from total range.
IntonationThe accuracy with which a performer produces the correct pitch of each note.
MicrotoneAny interval smaller than a semitone, used in various musical traditions and contemporary composition.
Synonyms
See Also
Compare with similar terms
v1 · 10/04/2026Browse all terms →