Definition

Noun: A small, handheld musical instrument that produces a single, fixed musical note of standard frequency when blown into. It is primarily used by singers or choirs to establish the correct starting pitch before beginning a piece of unaccompanied singing.

Usage

The pitch pipe is used to provide a reference tone. A singer blows into it to hear the correct note, ensuring they begin a song at the proper pitch without needing a piano or other instrument.

Examples

• Noun:
  • The choir director used a pitch pipe to give the starting note for the a cappella piece.
  • Before her solo, she quietly blew into her pitch pipe to find the right key.

Advanced Usage

• "to sound a pitch pipe": To blow into the instrument to produce its reference tone.
  • The conductor sounded the pitch pipe, and the singers immediately matched the note.

Variants and Related Words

• Tuning fork (n): A two-pronged metal instrument that produces a specific musical pitch when struck, also used as a pitch reference.
  • Some musicians prefer a tuning fork to a pitch pipe for its pure tone.

Synonyms

• Pitch instrument: A general term for any device used to establish a musical pitch.
• Tuner: A broader term for devices that assist in achieving correct pitch or tuning.

Noun

1. a small pipe sounding a tone of standard frequency; used to establish the starting pitch for unaccompanied singing