Tuning Tips
Instrument tuning can be a reluctant chore for many musicians. However, it is a necessity to keep your instrument in good condition and creating the proper tones. A great sound can’t be accomplished unless the instrument is tuned properly. There are several tips to make the process go smoother. Always tune on string at a time. This will allow you to focus on the sound of that individual string. Pluck the instrument in a steady increment to allow the tone to remain fresh rather than go flat as the sound travels. If you let it go flat, you will not be happy with the results of your tuning.
Make sure you use quality strings. While they do cost significantly more, the results are well worth the expense. Replace old strings once they loose their uniformity. They will not vibrate evenly at that point. It is important to stretch new strings out flat as you play. Quality strings that are in good shape with hold the proper tuning longer, cutting down on how often you will need to complete the process. They will also produce a better overall sound.
Pay attention to sources of friction. They can cause tuning issues. Common problems are a nut on the instrument being too tight. This will cause the string to pull flat as it is played. It will also cause the pitch of the string to change in steps rather than evenly.
There are a variety of products to choose from the assist you in the tuning process. A tuning fork is a U-shaped tool that is tuned to the A note. It is used universally to ensure instrument sounds won’t clash with each other. They are a reliable tool for tuning instruments.
A pitch pipe is very easy to use. It is not the most accurate tool available, but it works quickly. You blow into the pipe, listen to the tone, and adjust your instrument accordingly. The pitch pipe works best for those with a very keen sense of sound. Of course technology has provided us with software to help tune our instruments. There are many varieties of such software available. Quality should be a priority when making a selection.
