Violin Tuning:

Orchestrating a successful experience

Violin Tuning in the orchestra setting is the most unique of all tuning methods. In an orchestra or ensemble situation you will tune along with the other violins and stringed instruments in the room.

Depending on the preference of the conductor, you will either tune to the concert master/mistress, or to the Oboe. It is not always easy to hear yourself but try to match the other players, and the given pitch, as closely as possible.

Tips for Violin Tuning in Orchestra

  • Try to have your instrument as close as possible to the correct pitch before orchestra class and especially before a performance. Too many times someone (I am embarrassed to admit that once or twice this ‘someone’ was me) was frantically trying to fix a major tuning problem on the stage while every one else in the orchestra was finished and ready to start the concert.

  • When you are given a pitch by the Oboe or the Concert master/mistress listen to the note carefully before you begin to tune. It usually takes a second for the pure pitch to begin after the initial start of the note.

  • If you are playing a duet or small ensemble, you must tune to each other carefully. If you are having a piano accompany you, you must tune both to the piano and the other instrument(s)!

  • Do not just pluck the string to see if it is in tune. Bow the strings! On student-grade instruments, bowing and plucking doesn’t always have the same sound quality.

    • Violin Tuning for the Advanced Student

    You will also get to the point where you can tune to yourself. As long as you get a correct “A” pitch you will be able to use that string to tune your other strings. This takes practice and careful listening.

    After you have tuned the A string, play your A & D together. Without changing the pitch of the A, tune the D until the two strings sound good together (harmonize). Play the D & G together tuning the G string. Then lastly do the A & E together, tuning the E to harmonize with the A.

    Violin strings are in perfect 5ths. A well-trained ear can tell when strings are in tune to each other because of this musical interval between the strings.

    Return from Orchestra Violin Tuning to Main Tuning Page