Music – 1. Performing | e-Consult

Here are three practical ways to check and improve intonation:

1. Drone Notes. The band leader can play a drone note (e.g., a sustained C) and have the brass band play a specific note in relation to the drone. This allows the band leader to assess the accuracy of the band's intonation.

2. Harmonic Exercises. The band leader can play simple harmonic exercises (e.g., major and minor triads) and have the band play them. This helps the band to develop their ear training and improve their intonation.

3. Listen Critically and Provide Specific Feedback. The band leader should listen critically to the band's playing and provide specific feedback on areas where the intonation is inaccurate. Instead of saying "out of tune," the leader should say "the F in the second phrase is sharp" or "the chord is flat." This helps the players understand *where* they need to adjust.