Since you're here, you probably know the basics of intonation already. But in case this is something you haven't learned yet, let's review some basics.
What if I'm bad at this?
Playing in tune takes a lot of constant listening and adjusting after the initial check-in with your tuner. If your ears just can't tell if something is flat or sharp, in tune or out of tune- don't panic! This takes time. The main strategy is: If it sounds out of tune, try changing something. If it gets worse, do the opposite!
How can I tell if it's getting better?
When two notes are out of tune, you can hear "pulses" or "beats" in the sound. The more out of tune the notes get, the faster the pulses will be- the closer to in tune the notes get, the slower the pulses will be. Check out this video as an example: each wave you see is a note. At first, the waves are moving at different speeds, and you can hear some "wawas" or pulses. As they get closer to being in tune, the pulses slow down, until finally the waves are moving at the same speed.
Videos created using Audacity, Windows MovieMaker, and Youtube.
Here are some still images from the video to illustrate the effect:
Yer outta line! (When the waves "bump" together, it makes that "wawa" sound.)
These waves are all lined up! Yay!
What can I do to practice this?
One of our favorite ways to practice listening for intonation is to play along with a drone. This gives you an "anchor" to listen for. Start by using a tuner as you practice, then play with your eyes closed and see if you can tell- am I matching the drone, am I sharp, or am I flat? Then check your answer. Eventually, you'll start to hear the subtle differences. **Remember- you can't tune a bad tone! If your tone quality is poor, it's going to sound out of tune.** First of all, get a tuner. Like this one! -----------------> Or, find an online tuner or a tuner app that you like. Here are some neat apps you can use to play along with- click on each one to learn more. APS trainer slushpump.com/education Cello drones on Youtube- select the pitch you want. (Also on Spotify) Scalemaster Tonal Energy app