In ensemble tuning, what does intonation refer to?

• A. The loudness balance across sections.
• B. The accuracy of pitch among players; keeping notes in tune relative to each other.
• C. The tempo stability across measures.
• D. The articulation dryness.

Answer: (B)

Intonation in ensemble tuning is the accuracy of pitch among players, keeping notes in tune relative to each other. In a group, each musician may drift slightly from the written pitch due to instrument tendency or technique, so the team works to align all pitches to form a single, cohesive sound. Good intonation makes chords ring cleanly and the overall blend feel in tune, while poor intonation produces audible pitch discrepancies and a unsettled harmony.

This isn’t about how loud or soft you play, how fast you keep time, or how cleanly you tongue notes. Loudness balance, tempo stability, and articulation dryness are separate aspects of performance, not pitch alignment. To strengthen intonation, practice with a drone or tuner, focus on long tones and scale passages across registers, and tune with your section or the conductor so everyone matches the concert pitch and the ensemble’s center of pitch.