What does intonation refer to in music?

Intonation in music pertains specifically to the accuracy of pitch in performances. It involves how well a musician or ensemble is able to play or sing notes at the correct frequencies, ensuring that they are in tune with each other and with the intended pitch of the music. Proper intonation is essential for creating a harmonious sound and is especially critical in ensemble settings where multiple instruments or voices must be in alignment pitch-wise to sound cohesive.

While tempo relates to the speed of the performance and can affect the overall feel of a piece, it does not concern pitch accuracy. The strength of a musical passage generally refers to dynamics, such as loudness or softness, rather than pitch. Articulation style involves how notes are performed—such as staccato or legato—but again, this is separate from the concept of pitch accuracy. Therefore, the definition that focuses on the accuracy of pitch clearly captures the essence of what intonation is in a musical context.