Flute Tuner
Native American Flute Tuning Tool
- Click "Start Tuning" and allow microphone access when prompted.
- Play your flute with all holes covered to check the root note tuning.
- The tuner will auto-detect your flute's key. Adjust your blowing until the needle is centered and green.
- Use the Reference Pitch setting if you tune to a different standard (e.g., 432 Hz or 442 Hz).
Tips for Playing in Tune
In Tune
When the needle sits in the green zone and the note name matches your flute's key, your flute is in tune.
Blowing
Blow gently but steadily. The tuner shows you exactly how much air gives the true pitch. Too little = flat (needle left). Too much = sharp (needle right).
Temperature
Temperature affects pitch. Lower temperature lowers the pitch, and higher temperature raises it — as wood contracts and expands. Let your flute adjust to room temperature before tuning.
Block Position
Block position is critical. The block (bird) should sit right at the edge of the sound hole, or pulled slightly back toward the mouth end. A slightly backward block raises the pitch.
Flute Tuning Questions
How do I tune a flute?
Start the tuner and play a long, steady note with all finger holes covered. If the needle leans left, the note is flat; if it leans right, it is sharp. On a concert flute, pull the head joint out slightly to lower the pitch or push it in to raise it. On a Native American style flute, adjust your breath and the block position until the needle sits in the green zone.
Does this tuner work for any flute?
Yes. It is a chromatic tuner, so it detects any note. It works with Native American style flutes, concert flutes, recorders, tin whistles, bamboo and wooden flutes.
Do I need to install an app?
No. The tuner runs in your browser (Chrome, Firefox or Safari) on a phone or computer. The sound is analysed on your device and is never recorded or uploaded.
Why does my flute sound flat or sharp?
The most common causes are breath pressure, temperature and block position. Blowing softer lowers the pitch and blowing harder raises it. A cold flute plays flat, so let it warm to room temperature before tuning.
Which reference pitch should I use?
Most flutes are made for A = 440 Hz, the default. If your flute was made for another standard, such as 432 Hz or 442 Hz, change the Reference Pitch setting to match.
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