Classical kemenche tuner
This page is specifically for the classical Istanbul kemenche, also known as the politiki lyra. Its three open-string targets are A3–D4–A4: a fourth followed by a fifth, with the outer strings an octave apart.
Open-string notes and frequencies
Classical kemenche: Classical · A3 D4 A4. Equal-tempered frequencies at A4 = 440 Hz; the live targets follow the selected A reference.
| String / course | Sounding note | Frequency (Hz) |
|---|---|---|
| String 3 | A3 | 220.00 |
| String 2 | D4 | 293.66 |
| String 1 | A4 | 440.00 |
Dimitris Makris instrument workshop — Classic kemence tuning
How to use it
- Confirm that the instrument and teacher’s chart call for classical A3–D4–A4.
- Choose the A reference appropriate for the ensemble and tap the upper A4 button.
- Bow one open string while keeping fingernails and the other strings clear.
- Tune middle D4 and lower A3 separately, checking each reference tone’s octave.
- Compare both A strings together and then the neighbouring intervals, with a gentle bow.
Help and explanations
Dimitris Makris’s instrument workshop gives these notes and octaves for the classic kemence. The Pontic or Black Sea kemenche is a different instrument with its own setup; the shared name does not make this A–D–A chart interchangeable.
Two A strings, one octave relationship
At A440, the lower A3 is 220 Hz, D4 is about 293.66 Hz, and the upper A4 is 440 Hz. The outer strings share a letter but not a pitch. If a newly fitted lower string already feels firm, listen to the A3 reference before accidentally tightening towards A4.
The button order follows low to high pitch. Selecting a button also locks the reading to that string’s target, which is useful when resonance from an adjacent string makes automatic selection hesitate. Sound only the intended string while making the adjustment; save the combined octave check until both individual readings are stable.
An open-string reference does not define every makam interval
The classical kemenche uses side contact with the fingernail for stopped notes. For tuning, lift that contact entirely so the measured note is open. A light touch can change the reading even when the string has not been pushed towards a fingerboard.
This tool provides equal-tempered open-note references. Makam performance involves intonation choices that cannot be reduced to three green indicators or to an ordinary twelve-note scale. After setting the open strings, follow your teacher’s melodic intervals and ensemble practice.
For a Pontic instrument, another regional lyra, or a differently configured modern kemenche, use its own documented tuning. The chromatic tuner can measure those independently chosen notes, but this preset deliberately describes only the classical three-string instrument.
Tips
- Keep fingernail contact away during the open-string measurement.
- Listen for the lower A3 rather than matching every A to 440 Hz.
- If the peg slips or resists, resolve the setup before chasing pitch with force.
Frequently asked questions
Which kemenche does this tuner cover?
The classical Istanbul kemenche, or politiki lyra, with three strings tuned A3 D4 A4.
Are the two A strings in unison?
No. A3 and A4 are one octave apart.
Is Pontic kemenche tuning the same?
Do not assume so. It is a different instrument and needs its own regional string chart.
Can I check stopped makam notes?
The chromatic display can measure pitch, but equal-tempered note names do not prescribe makam intonation.
Why does a lightly touched string read differently?
Side contact with the fingernail can stop the string. Tune with that contact completely released.