What is a drone in music practice?

A note held steadily (like a bagpipe or tanpura) under what you play. Out-of-tune notes make audible beats against it.

What reference pitch should I use?

Use 440 unless your group tunes differently. Many orchestras use 442, and Baroque ensembles 415.

No. The drone is synthesised, so it is exactly in tune at any reference pitch.

Can I hear the tuning note only briefly?

Yes. Reference note plays the chosen pitch for two seconds.

Drone and reference pitch

A held note to tune and practise against, on any pitch and at any reference.

Play a scale slowly over the drone: you hear each note settle (or rub) against it.

Note

Octave Add

Reference pitch

415466

A4 Hz

A4 = 440 Hz. Most groups tune to 440; some orchestras 442; Baroque music often 415.

About this tool

A drone is a note held under your playing so you can hear your intonation against it. Pick any note and octave, add the fifth or octave above if you like, and set the reference pitch from A4 = 415 to 466 Hz. The sound is generated in your browser, so it is exact at any reference. Use the short reference note to tune, or keep the drone going while you practise scales, long notes and intervals.

Tips

A drone on the tonic plus its fifth is great for practising thirds and sixths in tune.
Singers: hum the drone note first, then sing your scale against it.

FAQ

What is a drone in music practice?: A note held steadily (like a bagpipe or tanpura) under what you play. Out-of-tune notes make audible beats against it.
What reference pitch should I use?: Use 440 unless your group tunes differently. Many orchestras use 442, and Baroque ensembles 415.
Does it use samples?: No. The drone is synthesised, so it is exactly in tune at any reference pitch.
Can I hear the tuning note only briefly?: Yes. Reference note plays the chosen pitch for two seconds.