Pianotech

An overview of piano development and emergence of the 5th harmonic

  • 1.  An overview of piano development and emergence of the 5th harmonic

    Posted 06-15-2025 12:29

    In responding to an email recently I decided to answer by video and perhaps people might be interested. On all of the old straight strung instruments the 3rd harmonic is prevalent and the 5th harmonic is suppressed. I've found the cross strung instruments to cease suppression of the 5th harmonic in contrast which of course grates with the equal tempered 3rd. Here's the video - 

    An impromptu look at 19th century pianos, harmonics and tuning

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    An impromptu look at 19th century pianos, harmonics and tuning
    A quick tour of some instruments showing the transformation from straight strung to cross strung styles of pianos and the consequences for tuning in the 19th century. If anyone is interested email address is antespam@gmail.com
    View this on YouTube >

    Best wishes

    David P



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    David Pinnegar BSc ARCS
    Hammerwood Park, East Grinstead, Sussex, UK
    +44 1342 850594
    "High Definition" Tuning
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