Why It's Impossible to Tune a Piano

The video tutorial explains the concept of string vibrations and harmonics, detailing how strings vibrate in fixed patterns and produce different pitches. It discusses the use of harmonics in tuning string instruments and the challenges faced when tuning pianos using harmonic methods. The video introduces equal tempered tuning, a modern solution that allows instruments to play in any key, albeit slightly out of tune, by using the 12th root of 2 to determine frequencies.

What determines the pitch of a vibrating string?

• The length of the string

• The number of sine wave bumps

• The color of the string

• The material of the string

In the traditional western scale, what is the interval called when the ratio of bumps is 2:3?

• Octave

• Perfect Fifth

• Major Third

• Minor Third

How can harmonics be used in tuning string instruments?

• By matching the third harmonic on one string to the second on the next

• By matching the second harmonic on one string to the first on the next

• By matching the first harmonic on one string to the fourth on the next

• By matching the fifth harmonic on one string to the third on the next

Why is it mathematically impossible to tune a piano perfectly using harmonics?

• Because harmonic tuning is only for string instruments

• Because pianos have too many strings

• Because harmonic ratios do not align perfectly across all keys

• Because pianos are made of wood

What is the main advantage of equal tempered tuning?

• It simplifies the construction of pianos

• It enables playing in any key with consistent tuning

• It allows for perfect tuning of all intervals

• It makes the piano sound louder