Definition

1. Noun:
   • The standard pitch used to tune musical instruments for ensemble performance: "Concert pitch" refers to the specific, agreed-upon frequency to which instruments are tuned so they sound harmonious when played together. The international standard typically defines the A above middle C as 440 hertz (Hz).

Usage

• "Concert pitch" is used to describe the tuning standard for orchestras, bands, and other musical groups. It ensures all instruments are in tune with each other.
• It is a fixed reference point, distinct from transposing instruments that read music written in a different key but sound at concert pitch.

Examples

• Noun:
  • The orchestra tuned their instruments to concert pitch before the performance.
  • Modern orchestras generally use a concert pitch of A=440 Hz, though some ensembles use A=442 Hz.

Advanced Usage

• "To be at concert pitch": This idiom means to be in a state of perfect readiness or peak condition, analogous to an instrument being perfectly tuned.
  • The athlete was at concert pitch for the final match.
• Historical Variations: Discussing different historical standards (e.g., Baroque pitch being lower) involves the concept of concert pitch.
  • The ensemble used a historically informed concert pitch of A=415 Hz for the Baroque piece.

Variants and Related Words

• Pitch (n): The perceived frequency of a sound or note.
  • The singer struggled to hit the correct pitch.
• Standard pitch (n): Another term for concert pitch.
• Tuning (n/v): The process of adjusting an instrument to the correct pitch.
  • The piano needs tuning.

Synonyms

• Standard tuning
• International pitch
• Diapason normal (a historical term)

Related Phrases

• Transpose to concert pitch: The act of converting written music for a transposing instrument (like a clarinet) into the key in which it actually sounds.
  • The score for the B-flat trumpet part must be transposed to concert pitch for the conductor's score.

Noun

1. the pitch used to tune instruments for concert performances; usually assigns 440 Hz to the A above middle C