Re: Pitch, XB-40 & whatever - was: XB40 retuning

["Tim Moyer" <wmharps@xxxxxxxxx>]

Pat Missin wrote:
> Tim  wrote:

> > In fact, I'd argue that
> > there are instruments made specifically to exploit a slight 
> > variation or "error" in pitch for the chosen notes, such as a 
> > fretless bass. 

> A certain degree of variation is acceptable, simply because ears and
> brains are not perfect precision measuring devices (although they 
> can do a whole lot of things that fancy digital devices cannot do). 

I think, though, that some pitch variation is acceptable not just 
because we can't perceive it, but because it is acceptable 
stylistically.  I think if you're listening to Little Walter and 
saying to yourslef, "Damn that F is flat," then you're not really 
hearing what he's playing.  Same goes with a Jaco Pastorius bass line 
in a Weather Report tune, or a Stephan Grappelli violin solo.

> > If I miss a bend by 20 cents on a given note in a solo how is 
> > that any more objectionable than playing a note that's tuned 20 
> > cents flat on my justly intoned harmonica?

> ... but there's a huge difference here.
<snip>
> Context is everything here. 

This is precisely my point.  I left the "context" out of this 
postulation, because in some contexts there is a difference, in 
others, none.

> Finally, nobody is ever perfect, nothing is ever perfect. Work on 
> it, but don't lose any sleep over it.

I tell my wife, "You know, you're perfect."  She, of course, is 
flattered, but replies, "No, I'm far from perfect," to which I 
respond, "Oh, you have your flaws, but to me, that's what makes you 
perfect!"

There is perfect, there's never flawless.

- -tim