Pitch Tendencies/Corrections

The Art of Tuning

Tuning is a constant process when performing on any wind instrument. You cannot simply tune your tuning note and assume you will be in tune from that point on. Ear training is a necessity to learning what is in and out of tune. Utilize drones and singing to help develop your ear.

Generally, fixing intonation comes down to direction of airstream, although the use of some alternate fingerings can be utilized to help correct pitch.

To raise pitch, direct your airstream up.

To lower pitch, direct your airstream down.

What can affect pitch?

The main factors that affect pitch are:

• Temperature

• Embouchure/Airstream

• Dynamics

• Correct cork placement (in the head joint)

  • See the fixes/checks to the right

There are also certain notes that just tend to naturally be out of tune on the flute. See below to study these to help you improve your overall sound.

Temperature: In the cold, all wind instruments will go flat. In the heat, they will go sharp. It is important to warm up your instrument before tuning to at least bring it to a comfortable temperature.

Embouchure/Airstream: Directing your airstream down will cause the pitch to lower. Directing it up will cause the pitch to raise.

Dynamics: When playing softly, the flute tends to go flat - direct your airstream up to raise pitch. When playing loudly, the flute tends to go sharp - direct your airstream down to lower pitch.

Cork Placement: This can sometimes be an issue with intonation, but if significant problems arise, be sure to check correct cork placement in your head joint. To do so, grab your cleaning rod. It should have a notch in it, and when inserted carefully into the head joint, the notch should be perfectly in the center of the embouchure hole. If it is off, it will need professional repair.

Correct Cork Placement