Today, we’re going to be looking at an exercise from my intonation exercises packet, which you can download for free here.
When two notes in a double stop both read as “center of the pitch” on a tuner, you’d expect them to sound in tune together. But with thirds, that’s often not the case. The way we tune intervals in isolation doesn’t always translate when they’re played simultaneously, and thirds are where this shows up most.
The exercise I’m walking through is called My Thirds Are None of Your Business. It’s a simple F major scale working up one string with a third double stop added on top. I’d recommend practicing it with a drone on F so your ear has something to anchor to.
Major Thirds: Go Smaller
The first interval in the exercise is F with an A on top, a major third. When both notes sit at the center of the pitch on the tuner, it sounds a little crunchy. Major thirds need to be slightly smaller than what the tuner tells you, which means the top note needs to pull slightly flat.
Minor Thirds: Go Bigger
The next interval is G with a Bb on top, a minor third. Same problem, opposite solution. Center pitch still sounds slightly off. Minor thirds need to be slightly larger, so the top note pulls slightly sharp.
How to Actually Practice This
Intonation work can get frustrating fast, and frustration is the enemy of listening.
When you practice this exercise, try to approach it as an exploration rather than a test. Sit on each interval, move your fingers up and down, and listen for the moment the interval locks in.
One thing worth remembering: once you start judging the sound you’re making, you stop listening to it. And if you’re not listening, it’s very hard to fix anything.
Want More Exercises Like This?
I put together an intonation exercise packet with this exercise and more. You can get your free copy here.
For more of Lauren’s insights, visit her Technique Tuesday series and sign up for the Double Bass HQ newsletter to have the series delivered to your inbox each week.
