Klarinet Archive - Posting 000379.txt from 1995/08

From: Mike Vaccaro <MVPROD@-----.COM>
Subj: Re: Intonation question
Date: Tue, 29 Aug 1995 13:22:22 -0400

Pitch (intonation) is primarily a function of the mind (assuming we have some
chops). We have to be willing to play in tune and meet half way.
Also playing in tune is more than matching the vibration of a note. That is
only the grossest aspect of intonation. We must match the character , style,
volume, tone and personality of the person/persons we are trying to play
with.

Admittedly the best players start closer in tune than students or part timers
however everyone must make adjustments and can play in tune. Some players do
it with fingerings, some with changing the angle of blowing and inner mouth
position, or I suppose there are other ways.

A word about tuners. They are good for checking general pitch however should
not be depended on for interval study as each interval has a different
function depending on the chord or passage. An A in a Fmajor chord will be
placed a different place than an A in C6 or B7 chord etc. Tuners only work on
the grossest level of tuning. Raw pitch tempered as the tuner is tempered.
Are tuners tempered differently? I think so and it would be a good experiment
for someone that wanted to pursue the subject.

The first chair must adjust just like the second chair must adjust just like
we must adjust when playing with other sections. If we know that the flute
player is fighting a high E that is always sharp on the horn we should help
and adjust to them just like they should if we are fighting a flat middle B
or low E etc.

Just some musings on a subject that I would expand on if I had 2 or 3 hours.

Mike Vaccaro