Bandoneon Tuning: A Complete Guide for autonomous Bandoneon Players
Introduction to Bandoneon Tuning
Tuning a bandoneon is both an art and a technique that involves understanding the nuances of this unique instrument. Although tuning may sound like a complex task, with the right knowledge and a hands-on approach, any bandoneon player can learn to maintain and tune their own instrument, achieving an authentic, personalized sound. In this article, I will explore step-by-step how to tune a bandoneon, from the basics to advanced techniques, all backed by my years of personal experience in maintaining this instrument.
Why Tune a Bandoneon Regularly?
Tuning is essential to ensure that the bandoneon maintains its characteristic sound. This process not only improves the tonal quality, but also prolongs the life of the instrument. The bandoneon, especially the older models, is vulnerable to detuning due to factors such as continuous use, transportation, and variations in temperature and humidity. My personal experience has taught me that proper tuning not only maintains the sound, but also enhances the expressiveness and performance of the bandoneon, bringing it to its full sonic potential. The following video is a sample of the sound of the bandoneon worked on in the Tuning Course for Bandoneonists, after a complete overhaul on both hands.
My Path to Bandoneon Tuning and Repair
My love for music and my dedication to instruments goes back to my childhood, but my history with the bandoneon began when my father gave me his own AA bandoneon. It was at that moment that I immersed myself in this world, taking lessons and traveling to Buenos Aires to learn from the experts. During one of these trips, the instrument went out of tune and it was then that I discovered the scarcity of luthiers and the high difficulty to repair it. Determined not to depend on anyone, I decided to learn how to tune and repair my bandoneon, achieving, over the years, not only to save on expensive maintenance, but also to share my experience with other bandoneonists who wish to gain autonomy.
Components and Tools Needed to Tune a Bandoneon
The tuning of a bandoneon does not require sophisticated tools or a large workshop, but a few essential elements and the proper technique:
Screwdriver (spike remover): to remove the combs of the resonance towers to access the reeds.
Chromatic stroboscopic tuner for mobile: essential tool to verify the precision of each tone.
Fine 120-grit sandpaper: used to adjust the tuning of the reeds by scraping their material.
A fine gouge: that allows us to hold, shake and move the voices.
With these basic tools, tuning and repair become much more accessible. It is important to remember that practice and patience are your greatest allies in this process. In the following video I show you the tools in a little more detail.
Preparing the Instrument: How to Identify Tuning Problems
If we want to do a tuning check, it is essential to identify the notes that are out of tune before we start tuning. This can be done by playing each key, listening carefully and comparing its sound with a chromatic tuner. My advice here is to pay special attention to the notes that sound unpleasant, especially those that jump out to our ear as we play the instrument. In my experience, taking the time to perform this evaluation can save you a lot of effort, as it will allow you to know exactly which reeds to adjust throughout the instrument. Don't worry, there is a step-by-step system that I explain in detail in the Bandoneon Tuning Course, the Bandoneon Tuning Course is designed to help you tune your instrument.
Tuning Methods: Techniques to Maintain the Desired Sound.
The tuning of the bandoneon reeds is based on the adjustment of their weight and size. Here are some of the methods I have personally applied:
Tongue sanding: The one I use the most because it is less abrasive and allows a gradual and controlled work, without risk of damaging the voices; it does not leave grooves or marks on the metal. It also reduces the risk of bending the reeds. Very good results in all types of tunings.
Reed scraping: This is a technique that requires a certain amount of control, since a sharp or pointed element is used to generate small grooves in the metal of the voices. It can be very helpful, combined with sanding, for wider and more severe detunings, but it increases the risk of damaging the reeds if special care is not taken.
Scraping with Mini lathe: Not recommended, in any case. Since it weakens the material of the reeds excessively, causing very early detuning, or even breakage.
These techniques require some practice and patience, but they are the key to achieve a balanced sound faithful to the essence of the bandoneon. It is essential to do the work in an orderly fashion. In the following link you can find information that will allow you to have a good working scheme.
Preventive maintenance to avoid tuning problems
One of the best tips I can give is preventive maintenance. A well-maintained bandoneon will be less out of tune, reducing the need for frequent adjustments. Some of the practices I follow include:
Proper storage: store in a dry and cool place, free from humidity. Without direct contact with the sun.
In transport: the bandoneon is a delicate instrument, and shocks can affect the internal structure and cause undesirable sounds.
During its use: when making music with the bandoneon it is advisable to avoid coastal areas or areas near the sea due to the excessive amount of saltpeter in the environment that corrodes the metal of the voices and quickly puts the instrument out of tune. It is also advisable to avoid air currents and sudden temperature changes, waiting a while for the instrument to acclimatize in a new space can prevent reed breakage. If you notice an abrupt change when entering a new environment, keep in mind to open your bandoneon without playing notes, only with the air valve, so that the air enters the instrument with the new temperature and the instrument adjusts itself little by little to this new environment.
This basic care may seem small, but I have found that it makes a big difference in the life of the instrument and the stability of its tuning. For more content about the bandoneon, you will find video tutorials and helpful content here.
Common Errors and How to Avoid Them in Bandoneon Tuning
Bandoneon tuning is an art that requires patience, and in my first attempts I made mistakes that today I know how to avoid:
Over-sanding: In the beginning, inexperience may lead you to over-sand, resulting in more work and excessive wear on the voices.
Using unsuitable tools: any tool that is not a precision tool can damage the tabs.
But don't worry, with the guidance and help available in the Tuning Course for Bandoneonists you will learn to make smooth adjustments and understand the impact of each movement on the tone and stability of the sound.
Developing Autonomy: Practical Tips for Bandoneonists
My purpose has always been to help bandoneon players achieve autonomy in the maintenance of their instrument, saving time and money. I have found that, with proper technique and a real commitment to learning, any musician can master this skill. At first, it may seem challenging, but the time invested is invaluable. The reward of hearing the finely tuned sound of your own bandoneon is incomparable and connects you even more deeply to your music.