How to Tune the Clarinet

You should maintain a near-perfect pitch when playing the clarinet whether playing by yourself or part of a larger group such as an orchestra or band. Even though some might not consider it worthwhile to tune the clarinet if you're the only person playing, it's a good habit to start tuning your clarinet. If you're flat or sharp, you can determine that by following the steps listed.

Difficulty:

Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Play third space C for tuning your clarinet if you're playing with a band; the tuning note is concert B-flat. Play third line B-natural if you're tuning for orchestra, where the tuning note is Concert A 440 Hz.

2. Determine if your clarinet sounds flat or sharp. You can do this by purchasing a chromatic electronic tuner, which not only provides a pitch for tuning, but it can give a visual check for the tone you produce. You could also use a piano to tune, but only use it if it's well tuned.

3. Pull out the tuning barrel near the upper joint connection on your clarinet if you're sounding sharp. This can make the clarinet longer, so it might sound slightly lower.

4. Push in the tuning barrel near the upper joint connection on your clarinet if you're sounding flat. This can make the clarinet shorter, giving it a slightly higher pitch.

Tips & Warnings

• If your tuning barrel is pushed all the way in, but you're still sounding flat, you may need to change the way you're mouth is placed on the clarinet or the way you're blowing into it.

• If you're performing with a band or orchestra, once one person has fixed his instrument's pitch, other performers can compare their sound to determine if their instruments are flat or sharp.