concert pitch

noun

1. Music. a standard of pitch used for tuning orchestral instruments, usually established at 440 vibrations per second for A above middle C.
2. a state of heightened eagerness, readiness, or tension:

   Spring training had brought the athletes up to concert pitch for the beginning of the season.

concert pitch

noun

1. the frequency of 440 hertz assigned to the A above middle C See pitch 1 international pitch
2. informal.
   a state of extreme readiness

Word History and Origins

Origin of concert pitch¹

First recorded in 1760–70

Example Sentences

They feel these things are essential to the acquiring of a fine technic, and keeping it up to concert pitch.

From Project Gutenberg

Mrs. Barrast was always screwed up to concert pitch and never gave herself, or any one in her vicinity, a single moment of peace.

From Project Gutenberg

From the rooms in the rear came the words of a gospel hymn sung in a tremulous soprano and at concert pitch.

From Project Gutenberg

Every workman is kept up to concert pitch, and the maximum work per man is obtained without resort to driving or rushing.

From Project Gutenberg

Hands grow busy, the noise recommences, and in a few minutes the buzz rises again to concert pitch.

From Project Gutenberg