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Tempered Tuning – Definition
Tempered tuning refers to tuning systems in which the pure mathematical intervals of the harmonic series are adjusted slightly to make more keys usable. This allows musicians to play in a wider range of keys without severe tuning problems.
What is Tempered Tuning?
Historically, different tuning systems were developed because perfectly pure intervals cannot be maintained in every key. By distributing these small tuning differences across the notes of the scale, tempered tuning makes modulation between keys possible.
The most common modern system is equal temperament, in which the octave is divided into twelve equal semitones. This tuning system is used on virtually all modern pianos and keyboard instruments.
Why is Tempered Tuning important for pianists?
Tempered tuning allows pianists to play comfortably in every major and minor key without retuning the instrument. It makes transposition practical and supports the rich harmonic language used in classical, jazz, pop, and rock music.
Understanding the concept of tempered tuning also explains why modern keyboard instruments can perform equally well in every key, even though none of the intervals—except the octave—is perfectly pure.