Summary of Piano Tuning Theory - Understanding Partials [Part 2] I HOWARD PIANO INDUSTRIES

Summary of "Piano Tuning Theory - Understanding Partials [Part 2]"

The video by Howard Piano Industries continues the exploration of Piano Tuning Theory, focusing on the concepts of partials and Overtones. The speaker explains how a piano string produces not just a Fundamental Tone, but also several Overtones or partials that are integral to understanding piano tuning.

Fundamental Tone and Overtones:
- Each piano string generates a Fundamental Tone (the main pitch) and several Overtones (partials) that are higher frequencies produced by segments of the string.
- Example: A string length of 25.5 inches generates the Fundamental Tone of middle C (C4).
Partial Frequencies:
- First Partial: Fundamental Tone (C4).
- Second Partial: Dividing the string in half produces an octave higher (C5).
- Third Partial: Dividing the string into thirds produces an octave and a perfect fifth above the fundamental (G5).
- Fourth Partial: Dividing the string into quarters yields two octaves above the fundamental (C6).
- Fifth Partial: Dividing into fifths results in two octaves and a major third above the fundamental (E6).
Demonstration on Piano:
- The speaker demonstrates how to hear these partials by pressing down on a note (e.g., middle C) without striking the string, then striking the higher notes to hear the vibrations of the corresponding partials.
- The relationship between the Fundamental Tone and its partials is illustrated through practical examples on the piano.
Characteristics of Higher Partials:
- As the partials increase in number, they become closer together in pitch.
- The highest note on the piano (C8) is identified as the sixteenth partial of middle C.
Resources:
- The speaker mentions that a list and table of partials will be available on their website for further reference.

To demonstrate the concept of partials on a piano:
- Press down on the desired note slowly to raise the damper without striking the string.
- Strike the note above it to hear the corresponding partial vibrate.
- Repeat for other partials to hear the relationships and differences in pitch.