Tin whistle tuner online
This tin whistle tuner shows the note you play, its octave and the cents off. On the most common whistle, in D, the six-finger scale runs D5 E5 F♯5 G5 A5 B5 C♯6, and the second octave starts on D6 with stronger breath.
How to use it
- Press Turn on microphone and allow access, then play a few notes to warm the whistle.
- Play the bottom-hand note G5 or A5 with a relaxed, steady breath and read the needle.
- Needle right (sharp): slide the head out a little. Needle left (flat): push it in. Non-tunable whistles cannot be adjusted.
- Check the low D, the top of the first octave and a few notes of the second octave with the same breath.
Help and explanations
Tune music for the whistle is often written an octave below the sound, so the tuner shows the real pitch, one octave higher than the notes on the page.
Breath changes the pitch
On a whistle, blowing harder raises the pitch and blowing softer lowers it. Before moving the head, play the note with the breath you really use in tunes; the tuner helps you find a steady, comfortable pressure for each octave.
Tips
- A cold whistle plays flat: tune after a couple of minutes of playing.
- Moisture in the windway makes notes unstable; cover the window and blow sharply to clear it.
- In a session, tune to the instrument that cannot adjust, often the accordion or concertina.
Frequently asked questions
How do I tune a tin whistle?
If the head slides, warm the whistle, play a middle note and move the head out to lower the pitch or in to raise it until the needle is centered.
What notes does a D tin whistle play?
D E F♯ G A B C♯ in the first octave (D5 to C♯6), and the same notes an octave higher with stronger breath. C natural is played with cross-fingering or half-holing.
Why is my whistle out of tune with the session?
Check your breath first, then the head position. Whistles also go sharp as they warm up during a set.
Is there a tin whistle tuner app?
You do not need one: this tuner works in the browser of your phone or computer.