Concert pitch defines the absolute frequency of each note. The ISO standard is A440 (the A above middle C = 440 Hz), but Baroque musicians use A415, some orchestras use A442–443, and some producers prefer A432. This reference shows Hz frequencies and cents deviation for any note at any standard.
Note Frequency Lookup
Tuning Standards Comparison
| Standard | A4 Frequency | Cents vs A440 | Used By |
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How to Use the Concert Pitch Reference
This concert pitch reference shows the Hz frequency for any note at all major tuning standards. Select a note and octave to see its frequency at A440 (standard), A432, A415, A443, and A466.
How Pitch Standards Affect Frequencies
Each tuning standard changes every note's frequency by the same ratio. At A415 (one semitone below A440), every note sounds approximately one semitone lower. A440 middle C (C4) is 261.63 Hz. At A415, C4 is 246.94 Hz — matching the pitch instruments were tuned to during the Baroque period.
Transposing Between Standards
When performing with a period instrument ensemble tuned to A415, modern instruments (like piano) need to be transposed. The standard practice is to play one semitone up — a C sounds like a B on the period instruments. This is why Baroque keyboard players sometimes transpose up one semitone when joining a period ensemble.
Tuning Your Instrument
Set your electronic tuner to the appropriate reference frequency for your context. A440 for standard modern performance. A415 for period ensembles. A442–443 for European orchestras (check with your ensemble's standard). Pitch differences between players create beats — the faster the beats, the more out of tune. Eliminate beating for perfect unison.
FAQ
Is this concert pitch reference free?
Yes, completely free. Compare tuning standards and look up note frequencies without any account or payment.
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What is concert pitch A440?
A440 means the note A above middle C vibrates at 440 Hz. This is the international standard pitch adopted by ISO in 1955 and used by virtually all modern orchestras, tuners, and instruments. It's the default for most digital tuners.
What is A432 and why do some musicians prefer it?
A432 Hz is an alternative tuning 8 cents below A440. Proponents claim it sounds more 'natural' or 'resonant,' though scientific evidence for audible benefits is limited. Some musicians find it more comfortable for vocals or prefer its slightly mellower tone quality.
What is A415 Baroque tuning?
A415 is approximately a semitone below A440, used in historically informed performance of Baroque music (Bach, Handel, Vivaldi). Baroque orchestras and period instrument ensembles tune to A415 to recreate the sound of 17th-18th century performances.
Why do some orchestras use A443?
Many European orchestras, particularly in Germany and Austria, tune to A443 or even A445. A slightly higher pitch creates a brighter, more brilliant sound quality that works well in large concert halls. A443 is 12 cents above A440.
What is a cent in music tuning?
A cent is 1/100th of a semitone. There are 100 cents between adjacent notes (e.g., A to A#). One cent is roughly the smallest pitch difference most people can detect. A432 is 31 cents below A440; A415 is about 100 cents (1 semitone) below A440.