Fortepiano pitch levels

[Fred S. Sturm]

    I'd think it would partly depend what instruments are around that will be
played with it. A lot of woodwinds and brass from the early classical era (as
well as copies) are designed for ca. 430 - 432. I know that's what the Santa Fe
Chamber Festival wants when they use fortepiano. But if you don't have any (or
many) such, and most use will be with instruments at modern pitch, you might want
to go to 440 as default, as much to avoid hassle as anything else.
    As for what the piano is originally scaled for, that's probably anyone's
guess.
Regards,
Fred Sturm
University of New Mexico

Dennis Johnson wrote:

> Hello-
>
> I would be interested to know how others deal with requests for various pitch
> levels on forte pianos. Our school just acquired and new, large Reiger piano
> and I meet with the piano department tomorrow to try and articulate a
> "policy".   I see no way around getting caught in the middle between those who
> want it for chamber music with modern instruments and the pianists (and
> vocalists) who seem to like the lower pitch.  I had hoped to keep it around
> A430.  Obviously I am most concerned about avoiding pulling it up and down and
> I find it hard to believe that any serious forte piano player would be
> satisfied at 440.  I even think it is even better for the instrument at the
> lower pitch, but maybe that is just my imagination.  Any advise or experience
> with this is welcome. Public or private.
>
> thanks,
>
> Dennis Johnson
> St. Olaf College