Detune (singing flat or sharp)
Unintentionally drifting from correct pitch while singing, either flat or sharp.
What it means
This term describes an unintended deviation from correct pitch while singing: a note is taken impurely, either too high or too low, without this being deliberate. It is also described as coming off the note or drifting away from it.
Musical use
The term is used mainly in vocal pedagogy and choral practice to name an intonation problem that often arises from fatigue, insufficient ear training, poor breathing technique, or lack of vocal support. Long held notes, high registers, and passages without accompanying instrumental support are especially prone to it.
Performance practice
Avoiding this drift is helped by regular ear training, a solid breathing and support technique, and consciously checking pitch against a reference, such as an instrument. In choral singing, a good listening connection to neighboring voices and a stable harmonic foundation help maintain intonation over longer passages.