Detune

To alter the pitch or tuning of a musical instrument or sound source, typically resulting in a less harmonious sound. This can involve lowering or raising the frequency of notes intentionally to achieve a particular effect, often used in music production to create a more complex or dissonant sound texture. Detuning is common in various musical genres to evoke specific emotions or atmospheres.

Detune meaning with examples

• The producer decided to detune the synthesizer slightly to create a more haunting sound for the track, giving it an otherworldly feel that resonated with listeners and added depth.
• During the live performance, the guitarist accidentally detuned his strings, resulting in a raw and gritty sound that, while unintended, captivated the audience and gave the song a unique edge.
• In order to achieve a slightly out-of-tune effect reminiscent of old recordings, the band members chose to detune their instruments, creating an authentic vintage sound that complemented their style.
• The sound engineer recommended detuning the piano a half-step lower, believing it would enhance the emotional weight of the ballad and make the singer's voice stand out more prominently in the mix.
• For the experimental composition, the composer intentionally decided to detune several instruments, exploring how these subtle changes affected the overall harmony and listener's perception of the music.