Unequal temperaments give different colors of tone to various key signatures by making certain intervals more pure. In contrast, equal temperaments divide an octave into twelve equally spaced notes. This allows the pianist to play in any key with a minimum number of intonation flaws. Most modern pianos are tuned using the equal temperament system. However, there is a growing acceptance of other systems that produce far different intonation patterns.
Composers worked with many different temperaments and, it can be argued, selected a key signature based on the tonal color it created. Tuning a modern instrument to one of these unequal temperaments will not harm the piano. Some would argue it allows musicians and audiences to experience the emotion of a piece in a more intense and authentic way. We have several temperaments available or we will help you design your own custom system.
FURTHER RESEARCH
For a more in-depth history and discussion of unequal temperaments, visit http://unequaltemperament.com.
