Ear Training for More Accurate Performance Intonation

by

 Michael Keener, Ph.D.

   Welcome to The Intonation Tutor web site!

   The Intonation Tutor is a multi-media device designed to assist musicians with the improvement of performance intonation through play-along ear training exercises and written text that explains the principles of musical intonation.

    The Intonation Tutor is available for trombonists and other musicians whose instruments or voices have a similar tessitura such as euphonium, bassoon, 'cello, or bass/baritone voice. Versions of The Intonation Tutor for other instruments are in development at this time.

    The Intonation Tutor consists of two interactive parts:

1. A manual, containing descriptions of the processes and principles used in the Tutor and the printed music for use as intonation studies, and

2. An audio compact disc containing music files recorded in moveable-comma just intonation for use while practicing the intonation and ear training exercises printed in the manual.

    The music files on The Intonation Tutor CD include the twelve major scales, ten duets, four trios, and two quartet phrases.  These music files are interval studies and ear training exercises that will help improve the speed and accuracy of intonation perception and adjustments and lead to more fulfilling music performance for the performer, colleagues, and listeners.

Please Note:

     The Intonation Tutor CD is different from other intonation trainers available today.  The Intonation Tutor music files are recorded in a way that emulates live music performance intonation parameters.  This is accomplished by the use of movable-comma just intonation that allows just intervals to be present at all times in a manner that performers try to achieve while playing in an ensemble.  Because the musical lines on the CD are computer-generated and not produced with the use of a keyboard-style synthesizer or live musicians, the recorded sounds are perfectly in tune and unwavering in pitch. 

    For more information about The Intonation Tutor please view the other pages of this site.  Pages include:

     More detailed information about The Intonation Tutor ;

     Samples from the Tutorial in print and sound;

     A reprint of the article "Thoughts on Intonation"   by Dr. Michael Keener, published in

the Spring, 1997, issue of the ITA Journal,

     Information about the author.

     Purchasing information: Pricing and shipping.

please  send an email to me.

The Intonation Tutor

This page was last updated on Feb.24, 2004.