How to Tune a French Horn

Steps

1. Open the School Band Class tuner on your phone (HTTPS required for the mic).
2. Pick the closest instrument preset (or chromatic).
3. Play a steady pitch—don’t blast. Watch flat / in-tune / sharp.
4. Warm the instrument first (a few buzzes). Cold brass plays flat.
5. Use a reference pitch (tuner drone or piano A) and match with air + embouchure, then slides if needed.
6. When the guide says in tune, play a short scale to confirm.

If it won’t stay in tune

• New strings need a few days to settle (strings/guitar).
• Extreme heat/cold in a car can throw everything off—or damage the instrument.
• Persistent issues: bridge position, stuck slides, leaking pads—bring it in for repair.