A COMPARATIVE STUDY OF TEACHING PIANO TUNING AT XINGHAI CONSERVATORY OF MUSIC, GUANGDONG PROVINCE, THE PEOPLE'S REPUBLIC OF CHINA

Abstract

The research topic was “A Comparative Study of Teaching Piano Tuning at Xinghai Conservatory of Music, Guangdong Province, The People's Republic of China” The purpose of the study was to find out the advantages and disadvantages of commonly used piano tuning software, specifically: (1) the professional piano tuning software and (2) the advantages and disadvantages of the different visual tuning software. The methodology was mixed-method research: This research is qualitative and quantitative. Research tools: Interview Form, Questionnaire Form, Observation Form. Population and sample: This study consisted of 356 students from Xinghai Conservatory of Music, Guangdong Literary & Art Vocational College, and Guangdong Dance and Drama College in Guangdong Province, China. A sample of 60 students was selected using purposive sampling, with 50% of the total students from each of the three schools participating in a sample survey.

The research findings were: (1) In interviews with professionals, it was generally found that the use of piano tuning software was supported as a means to enhance student's learning efficiency in piano tuning lessons. All 12 experts reported using Yamaha PT-A1 and Tunelab, along with other piano tuning software. Specifically, 8 experts utilized Verituner, while 6 experts preferred TLA CTS-5-C. Despite experimenting with other tuning software, satisfactory results were not achieved. The survey results indicate that Yamaha PT-A1, Tunelab, Verituner, Reyburn Cyber Tuner, and TLA CTS-5-C are the most commonly utilized professional tuning software options. (2) The data analysis of questionnaires completed by 12 teachers and 60 students reveals the following findings: PT-A1 is the most commonly used software for piano tuning teaching, while TuneLab has lower accuracy but a superior overpull mode. However, Cybertuner and Verituner software have complex interfaces, are expensive, and have limited availability, leading to low usage rates among respondents. TLA CTS-5-C is primarily used in manufacturing and lacks versatility for teaching and testing. Each software has its unique features, so the choice depends on specific needs. For advanced features, Verituner is recommended, while PT-A1 is better for simplicity and quick results. TLA CTS-5-C can provide accurate tuning but is limited. Careful consideration of software features is advised.