Does the size of the room in which you practice come into play with a flute's intonation? For example: I practice at home in my bedroom, which is fairly small. I always use an electronic tuner and I consistently pull my headjoint out about 1/4 inch. Even taking into account the embouchure battles I've been having, this has been pretty standard for me in my practice sessions. However, when I play with a group at the school, in 3 different rather large rooms, I am always sharp and have to pull the headjoint out about 1/2 inch, sometimes more. I use the same tuner at both locations, set to the same measures. We tune to either the 1st clarinet or the oboe, depending on who is present. According to the tuner, they are right on target. (I checked because I was wondering if the rest of us were tuning to a different pitch .... ).
I can cheerfully say that this problem could simply be my fault because I could be tightening up or something else weird. I have, however, been making a very concerted effort to be consistent with my playing and have been watching it carefully. I also notice that the saxophones, who sit behind me usually, tend to be pretty sharp .... is sharp-ness catching, like the flu?
Any ideas? I know Phineas will chime in ....
