1/17/2006
THE PITCH PIPE Farley's Musical Essentials introduced the world's first key chain pitch pipe. Actually, the little, key-fob sized PocketTones are not a pitch pipe in the traditional sense of the word. The PocketTones concept was designed to perform the same function as a pitch pipe; however, there are many advantages that may set PocketTones apart from the standard pitch pipe. Before exploring some of the differences, the question may be asked: Isn't the idea of using a pitch pipe a bit outdated?
At first thought, it may well seem that using a pitch pipe is a thing of the past. What, with all of the new tuning devices, especially the electronic style with such accuracy, who needs the old glee club pitch blower? Good question, but for hundreds of years, various types of pitch generating devices have served fellow musicians. The likelihood of seeing the pitch pipe go away anytime soon is not realistic.
The American Heritage Dictionary defines a pitch pipe as, "A small pipe that, when sounded, gives the initial pitch for a piece of music or the standard pitch for tuning an instrument." What could be more practical then an accurate musical device that fits into ones pocket or instrument case - especially if this little gadget would set the musical course for a group of singers, soloists, or even instrumentalists? After all there is not always a piano near by, and who's to say that the old guitar in the corner is even up to pitch?
Pitch pipes of sorts will no doubt always be with us. Besides the larger, expensive electronic types, there are the round blow-on types that most commonly come in the keys of C and F. These are called chromatic pitch pipes; that is to say, that it may start on C and proceed through the musical alphabet until C reappears. The same is true with the key of F: starts on F and ends on F (an octave higher). Both keys are suitable for any musician, but generally men will ask for the key of F and ladies the key of C. Since the notes on the pitch pipe are universal, it becomes a matter of personal choice, not right or wrong.
There are thirteen all-blow tone chambers on these pitch pipes. The finer pitch pipes are made with precision-tuned, heavy bronze reeds, double-checked to the A440 standard. The scale is arranged in sequence and clearly marked by embossed notations on both top and bottom covers.
Another tool for tuning or obtaining an accurate pitch is the tuning fork, a U-shaped steel device with a handle at its base, which when struck produces a relatively pure tone.
An alternative option to a traditional pitch pipe that Farley's brings to market is called the PocketTones. It is an electronic tuner that has unbeatable accuracy. The price point is far less then the good quality pitch pipes, but more accurate, and one never has to blow on PocketTones. (There is something to be said for not sharing those germs). The PocketTones electronic pitch pipe is not indispensable; it is a great a concept for the world of a cappella singers, choirs, quartets, and they are even fantastic for timpani tuning. The user gets extreme accuracy at the touch of a button, and there is a volume control on the chromatic versions. This means that PocketTones may be used for personal use or even for groups of thirty-five or more voices. Besides being key-chainable, PocketTones will not collect pocket lint or excess spit that often clogs or ruins an expensive pitch pipe.
The reed type pitch pipe will probably always be with us as will the tuning fork. There are many and varied ways to obtain the pitch you need; and it is your choice to choose the one that is right for you.
Written By: info@farleysessentials.com
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