Definición
Gaita tuning key
También conocido como: tonu · gaita tonality · gaita key
Reference key of an Asturian gaita, named after the punteru's note. The most common are C, B flat and D; each changes the instrument's timbre and repertoire.
The gaita tuning key is the pitch the instrument is built in, named after the punteru’s reference note. A gaita “in C” gives its base note in C; one “in B flat”, in B flat.
The most common keys in the Asturian gaita are C, B flat and D. The choice isn’t only about pitch: each key has its own timbral color and suits certain repertoire or playing alongside other instruments better.
A gaita isn’t tuned note by note like a guitar: overall pitch is adjusted mainly at the bag and in the position of the punteru and the roncón, and fine balance is sought before playing.