Definition

Noun: * Fixed intonation refers to a system of tuning or pitch organization, primarily for keyboard instruments, where each note is set to a specific, unchangeable frequency. The performer cannot alter the pitch of individual notes through technique, such as bending or vibrato, during play.

Usage

• Fixed intonation is a fundamental characteristic of instruments like the piano, organ, harpsichord, and celesta.
• This term is used in contrast to variable intonation or flexible intonation, which is possible on instruments like the violin, trombone, or the human voice, where the performer can continuously adjust the pitch.
• It is a key concept in discussions about musical tuning systems, temperament, and the limitations/possibilities of different instrument families.

Examples

• The piano's means a pianist cannot produce the microtonal slides characteristic of a blues guitar.
• Because of their , keyboard instruments presented a unique challenge in the historical development of musical temperament.
• A singer can adjust notes to harmonize perfectly with others, but an organist must rely on the instrument's pre-set .

Advanced Usage

• Historical Context: The development of equal temperament was a solution to the problems of in keyboard instruments, allowing them to play in all keys reasonably well.
• Acoustic Phenomenon: systems often involve a compromise, as the pure intervals of just intonation cannot be perfectly maintained across all keys on an instrument with fixed pitches.

Variants and Related Words

• Fixed-pitch instrument (n): An instrument, such as a piano or xylophone, that produces notes at predetermined, unalterable frequencies.
• Equal temperament (n): The modern, standardized system of tuning for instruments, dividing the octave into twelve equal semitones.
• Temperament (n): Any system of tuning for instruments with .

Synonyms

• Fixed pitch
• Rigid intonation
• Non-flexible intonation

Antonyms

• Variable intonation
• Flexible intonation
• Continuous pitch

Noun

1. the intonation of keyboard instruments where the pitch of each note is fixed and cannot be varied by the performer