Re: Re: Orchestra tuning


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Posted by TC on November 15, 2002 at 18:07:05:

In Reply to: Re: Orchestra tuning posted by Mark Wiseman on November 15, 2002 at 12:20:14:

"You should have your tuba in tune with itself beforehand then tune to the A"

To be perfect, if such a thing is possible, the slide positions in the valve branches are dependant upon the main slide position. For instance, for the second valve to give a half step change there needs to be a certain percentage (approx. 6%)of length added to the open bugle length. Note that this not dependant on the accuracy of the pitch being played, but rather on the length of the tuba's tubing.

You pull the main slide and you've lengthened the horn. The V2 slide is still adjusted for the shorter bugle. Now it doesn't quite give you that half step because it only adds the 6% of the shorter (and higher) length and not the new longer length. The same is true of all the other valve slides.

Realistically, you ,or at least I, won't be able to hear the error unless the main slide was moved a long way. Plus, your lips probably correct any tiny error automatically. Still, if you're striving for perfection...


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