As a rule, if one has a good ear, a normal vocal organ, and fair musical sense, intonation need not be defective. It is important that you train yourself to listen to pitch of tone in your own and other voices and in instruments. Thereby you will cultivate a critical ear. Practice reproducing pitches without instrumental aid, but, until you have developed a good feeling for pitch, it is well to check yourself frequently with an accurately tuned piano or pitch pipe.
In connection with intonation it should be pointed out that the way you begin a tone is extremely important. You cannot start it with incorrect intonation, poor tonal quality, and indistinct articulation and be able entirely to rectify your mistakes. Indeed, you must know what you wish to produce and how to do it before you commence singing. Famous Italian teachers of the past called the starting of a tone attacare, meaning to attack.- They considered it highly important and insisted upon their pupils doing it satisfactorily.
The finish of tones should also receive careful attention. As they begin, so should they end, — exactly in tune and well controlled.