Exploring the Intricate Link between Frequencies and Notes in A=432Hz tuning
Posted by Jeff Howard on 18th Apr 2023
In A=432Hz tuning, the note A above middle C is tuned to a frequency of 432 Hertz (Hz). This means that all other notes in the 12-tone equal temperament system, which divides the octave into 12 equal parts, are also tuned relative to A at 432Hz. For example, middle C is tuned to 256Hz, and each higher note is tuned at a frequency that is double the frequency of the previous note. So, the note A above middle C in A=432Hz tuning would be 432Hz, the next A (A5) above would be 864Hz, and the A (A3) below is going to be 216Hz. However, in alternative tuning systems like just intonation or Pythagorean tuning, the relationship between A and other notes is based on frequency ratios rather than fixed pitch values, so the frequency to note relationship can be different.
In a tuning standard, note names are determined based on the frequency of the sound waves produced by each note. The note names are typically based on the Western music notation system, which includes the notes A, B, C, D, E, F, and G.
In A=432Hz tuning standard, the note A is tuned to 432 Hz, which means that the sound wave produced by the note A vibrates 432 times per second. The frequency of each note is determined based on its relationship to the frequency of the A note, which is typically used as a reference point in tuning.
Similarly, in the A=440Hz tuning standard, the note A is tuned to 440 Hz, which means that the sound wave produced by the note A vibrates 440 times per second.
In the A=432Hz tuning, with the A note tuned to 432Hz, which is said to be done in harmony with the universe and the natural vibrations of the Earth. From there, the other notes in the scale are determined based on their relationships to A.
The most common tuning system used in Western music is called the equal temperament tuning system, which divides the octave into 12 equal parts or semitones. In this system, the frequency ratio between each note and its adjacent note is the same, which is approximately 1.0595.
Therefore, in A=432Hz tuning, the frequency of each note in the scale would be as follows (rounded to the nearest whole number):
C4 = 256Hz
D4 = 288Hz
E4 = 320Hz
F4 = 336Hz
G4 = 368Hz
A4 = 432Hz
B4 = 480Hz
C5 = 512Hz
Note that when you round frequencies to the whole number to make them look cleaner visually, it impacts the harmonic quality of the intervals in the octave. This “Numerological” view is problematic as it ignores the accuracy of using the pitch to a more exact degree for number aesthetics alone.
Ultimately, the choice of tuning standard depends on the preferences of the sound healer or musician, and what effects they wish to achieve with their music. Some may choose to experiment with different tuning systems and frequencies to find what works best for them and their audience.
Choosing a tuning standard for sound healing can be a personal choice and may depend on a variety of factors such as cultural background, personal preference, and the intended purpose of the healing session. Here are some factors to consider when deciding on a tuning standard:
Purpose: Consider the intended purpose of the sound healing session. Different tuning standards may have different effects on the body and mind, so it's important to choose a standard that aligns with your beliefs to further your confidence and help bring about your desired outcome.
Cultural background: If you have a cultural background that uses a specific tuning standard in their traditional music or healing practices, you may choose to use that standard to honor and connect with your cultural heritage.
Instruments: Some instruments are designed to be tuned to a specific standard, so it's important to choose a standard that is compatible with the instruments you plan to use.
Audience preference: If you are performing for a specific audience, you may want to choose a tuning standard that resonates with them and their cultural background or personal preferences.
Ultimately, the choice of tuning standard may come down to personal preference and experimentation. It may be helpful to try out different standards and see which one feels the most resonant and effective for you and your clients.
Here are some ways that you can experiment with different tuning standards:
Listen to recordings: Listen to recordings of music or singing bowls tuned to different standards and pay attention to how each one makes you feel. Take note of any physical, emotional or mental responses you experience.
Play different instruments: Experiment with playing different instruments, such as singing bowls, gongs, chimes or tuning forks, that are tuned to different standards. Notice how the vibrations feel in your body and how they affect your mood.
Tune your own instruments: If you have your own instruments that are able to be tuned, you can experiment with tuning them to different standards. This will give you a better sense of the subtle differences in each tuning. This is generally reserved for string instruments but may also apply to drums that are able to be tuned.
Work with a tuner: If you have access to a tuner, you can experiment with different tunings by having the tuner visually provide note information while you play. Understanding the relationships of the note intervals and even exploring tuning variations or microtones are a great way to gain the ability to arrange music to complete your vision.
Attend sound baths or other live events: Attend events where different tuning standards are used. Ask the performers what standard they use to combine the instruments they use and what they went with the instruments that they have. This can be a great way to experience the different effects of each tuning firsthand and connect with other sound healers.
Remember, there is no right or wrong tuning standard to use in sound healing. It's important to choose the one that resonates with you and feels most effective in your healing practice.