In this article, we will delve into the age-old discussion of the pitch on which a Handpan is tuned :) and we will both touch on its historical aspect, then simplify it in your approach to this instrument.
These two frequencies have aesthetic, philosophical, and sometimes even spiritual implications for some musicians and listeners.
Music is a universal language that has transcended the ages with notes that resonate through time. However, before the tuning frequency found an international standard, it was a terrain of sonic diversity.
Conquering Frequencies: The Legacy of Tuning to 432 Hz
Music, a canvas woven with notes and frequencies, has seen daring explorations emerge over the centuries. Among these quests, tuning to 432 Hz stands out as a musical adventure, often linked to the legacy of Pythagoras, the master of mathematics and philosophy.
Far from being an innovation of the 1970s, the idea of tuning instruments to the frequency of 432 Hz dates back much further in the history of music. The roots of this alternative frequency can be traced back to the early 20th century, if not before. Some even suggest that classical composers such as Mozart and Verdi may have used slightly different tuning frequencies from the contemporary standard of 440 Hz.
Interest in tuning to 432 Hz has experienced resurgences at different times, but the idea gained new momentum in the 20th century. The 1970s saw artists and music theorists explore this alternative frequency in the hope of creating a deeper and more connected musical experience.
The connection with Pythagoras lies in his exploration of frequency ratios and musical intervals. Although Pythagoras laid the foundations of music theory by studying these relationships, there is no solid historical evidence to confirm that he specifically advocated tuning to 432 Hz.
Thus, tuning to 432 Hz remains a fascinating adventure, where the exploration of harmonics meets the mystery of ancient mathematics. While modern science has not always confirmed the alleged benefits of this frequency, it continues to captivate musicians and listeners, adding a note of mysticism to the symphony of musical history.
The Evolution of Tuning Frequency in Music: The Triumph of A 440 Hz
Let's go back to 1939, during the first music conference in London. At that time, different tuning frequencies prevailed without standardization. A proposal emerged: A 440 Hz.
However, its universal adoption was not immediate.

The breakthrough came in 1953 during the Standardization Conference on Acoustics, also in London.
There, A 440 Hz was established as the international standard, sanctioned by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) under ISO standard 16.
This adoption marked a major turning point, bringing coherence and facilitating global musical collaboration. Now, the frequency of 440 Hz resonates like a harmonious melody, uniting music lovers worldwide.
Controversies :
Tuning to 432 Hz is often associated with esoteric and spiritual ideas, but there is no scientific or musical consensus on its intrinsic advantage over 440 Hz.
The frequency difference between 432 Hz and 440 Hz is relatively small, and for many listeners, the distinction can be subtle.
It is important to note that these tuning preferences are often subjective and depend on the personal tastes of musicians and listeners.
Some artists prefer tuning to 432 Hz for its spiritual associations, while others remain loyal to the international standard of 440 Hz for its convenience and widespread acceptance.
And so, with the Handpan?
Any Handpan manufacturer is capable of tuning an instrument to either 432Hz or 440Hz.
Indeed, the manufacturing and tuning process is exactly the same, except that we need to adjust the software we use to guide our hammers and our ear to the desired pitch.
However, and this is not insignificant, the vast majority of existing instruments are tuned to 440Hz. This is important to keep in mind when choosing your own Handpan because if your desire is to share your passion for music with others, you may find yourself limited if you have chosen 432Hz!
It's worth considering; the choice is yours, and there's no wrong choice in music :)
Vince
Comments