Tuning with Technology

Book excerpt: Ensemble directors often ask students to listen to their tuning/intonation, but do students actually understand what it means to play in tune? Without a reference point, identifying out of tune notes may pose a significant challenge for young players. Tools such as the Harmony Director and Tonal Energy have provided directors with the ability to teach students to identify and correct intonation concerns, but can be confusing. Inside, music educators will find information and exercises they need to:Understand the basics of intonationUse the Harmony Director/Tonal Energy to provide pitch referencesDevelop good tuning habits among studentsImplement just intonation in rehearsalImprove overall intonation in the ensemble!