Morin khuur tuner
This morin khuur tuner opens with F3–B♭3, two strings a fourth apart. The alternative G3–C4 represents an Inner Mongolian setup. Their open-string targets have different absolute pitches but the same interval.
Open-string notes and frequencies
Morin khuur: Mongolian · F3 B♭3. Equal-tempered frequencies at A4 = 440 Hz; the live targets follow the selected A reference.
| String / course | Sounding note | Frequency (Hz) |
|---|---|---|
| Low string | F3 | 174.61 |
| High string | B♭3 | 233.08 |
How to use it
- Identify the lower and higher open strings on your instrument and confirm their intended register.
- Choose F–B♭ or G–C before tuning, with concert A set to the reference used in your group.
- Tap the lower-string button, then bow that string without touching it with a finger or nail.
- Read the sustained pitch after the bow has settled, and adjust its peg in small movements.
- Check the upper string the same way, then compare the fourth and recheck both strings.
Help and explanations
Morin Khuur Singapore documents these registers, and Uuguul’s learning guide uses F/B♭ for its introductory note chart. Confirm your instrument’s tradition and string setup rather than using a horsehead-fiddle name alone to choose a register.
The written letters must include an octave
At A440, F3 is about 174.61 Hz and B♭3 about 233.08 Hz. G3 and C4 are about 196 Hz and 261.63 Hz. Some charts and sample libraries use different register conventions, so the octave numbers here are part of the target. The two reference buttons help you hear that register before making a large adjustment.
B♭ may appear as A♯ on a chromatic display: these labels identify the same equal-tempered pitch. It should not be confused with B natural. Establish the note and octave first; small cents adjustments come afterwards.
Tune with the bow stroke you actually use
The two strings can be bundles of horsehair or modern synthetic material rather than ordinary violin strings. A continuous, controlled bow stroke gives a more useful open-string check than a noisy attack. Keep the stopping hand away: the instrument’s distinctive side-contact technique can alter pitch even without pressing a string onto a fingerboard.
The G–C option is a documented regional arrangement, not an instruction to raise every F–B♭ instrument. Ask the maker or teacher which register its strings and construction support. Lower traditional setups and other horsehead fiddles also exist, so use the chromatic tuner for an independently confirmed alternative.
Once individual readings are stable, listen to the fourth and play a short familiar phrase. If the pitch varies with bow direction or pressure, establish consistent bowing before chasing every needle movement with the peg.
Tips
- Compare B♭ with the reference tone if the display spells it A♯.
- Keep bow speed and pressure similar between successive checks.
- Trace the string to its peg; the lower string’s side can vary with the setup.
Frequently asked questions
What are the opening morin khuur notes?
F3 and B♭3, a fourth apart, for the Mongolian setup shown here.
What is the G–C option?
G3 C4 is the documented Inner Mongolian example. Verify that your instrument is intended for it.
Is B♭ the same as A♯?
At the equal-tempered reference used here, yes. B natural is a different pitch.
Should I raise my F–B♭ instrument to G–C?
Only when its maker or teacher confirms that setup and string suitability. A regional alternative is not a universal retuning instruction.
Why does the reading move with the bow?
The attack, bow pressure and accidental finger contact can change the measured pitch. Read a steady open-string stroke.