Re: [Harp-L] Special 20 Tunning

["Steve Shaw" <moorcot@xxxxxxx>]

> Well, I don't know about the differences between compromise and 
> compromised, and the origins of the denomination. Not being a native 
> speaker, I can't say much about.
>
> The Golden Melody continues to be tuned according to 12 TET.
>
> Hohner harmonicas are usually tuned sharper than A440, even though the 
> stamp on the Marine Band coverplates says othewise, for instance. Call it 
> historical heritance. The actual value is about 442. Some reasons: players 
> do tend to play a little bit flattted. Specially beginners. An instrument 
> which is tuned a little bit higher is usually better accepted than one 
> which is tuned a little bit flat. Orchestras have been tuning considerably 
> higher than 440 for some time now, and this is specially important for 
> chromatic harmonicas. All in all, it is a solution which has been very well 
> accepted by the market.
>
> All the best,
> Fernando

I suspected that the slightly sharp tuning was to give the harp a slightly 
"bright" edge with other instruments.  I always get annoyed when fiddle 
players ask me to "give 'em an A" or whatever.   Unless all your harps are 
A440 and equal temperament, that request is a right old can of worms!  It's 
always fiddle players, too.  Anyone else noticed that?

Steve

http://mysite.wanadoo-members.co.uk/trad_irish_harmonica
HEAR my CD clips: http://www.gjk2.com/steveshaw/cd.htm
READ review of my CD: http://www.irishmusicreview.com/sshaw.htm