Should I tune to my flute or tune the flute to me?

    
Should I tune to my flute or tune the flute to me?    17:38 on Tuesday, July 25, 2017          

iDream
(4 points)
Posted by iDream

Hi people.
I am currently having this question in my mind:

Should I close my headjoint all the way (my flute is 442hz) to make an A 442hz?

OR

Should I focus on the sound quality and adapt the headjoint to my style of playing?

P.S.: I play for 7yrs


Re: Should I tune to my flute or tune the flute to me?    09:05 on Thursday, July 27, 2017          

contra448
(771 points)
Posted by contra448

As I understand it flutes are designed to play at the specified pitch when the head is pulled out by about 3mm, giving a bit of tuning leeway in both directions.


Re: Should I tune to my flute or tune the flute to me?    21:15 on Thursday, July 27, 2017          

Bilbo
(1340 points)
Posted by Bilbo

You should always tune to yourself and to any other instruments that you are playing along with...but you should also go for tone quality and flexibility of embouchure. If you prefer to play at A=442 then after you find your tonal center and tonal focus then should you adjust the draw on your head joint so that it will play in tune. The position of the head joint embouchure hole relative to your embouchure is going to affect your tuning location
I hope that this makes sense.


Re: Should I tune to my flute or tune the flute to me?    03:28 on Friday, July 28, 2017          

iDream
(4 points)
Posted by iDream

Thank you, I recently got a successful audition and want to focus on the technique now.
Could you explain how to find the better headjoint adjustment for my type of lips?

Thank you.


Re: Should I tune to my flute or tune the flute to me?    07:24 on Friday, July 28, 2017          

Bilbo
(1340 points)
Posted by Bilbo

"Could you explain how to find the better headjoint adjustment for my type of lips?"


No, I'm sorry. Making suggestions on that sort of issue would need to involve a lesson in person to be effective.


Re: Should I tune to my flute or tune the flute to me?    22:05 on Sunday, July 30, 2017          

christielea
(27 points)
Posted by christielea

Hey there!

It's great timing - I've just written an article on flute tuning, and I think it will be super helpful. I explain how sound works, how the flute makes notes, why tuning is important and.... I have recorded a step-by-step video that shows you exactly what you need to do to tune your flute at home.

Have a look at it here, and let me know if you are still struggling. I'm sure I can help!
http://www.theflutecoach.com/flute-tuning/

All the best,
Christie


   




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