Fluteland.com Flute Message Board

My first flute teacher always told me to never slide my thumb. Although I would say I don't completely agree with that rule. I think the issue is more complicated then a strict rule. For example, if you were sliding your thumb while holding a note (say Eb) where it didn't change the pitch (tone/tuni...

I have to disagree; powder paper has worked very well for me, and is recommended by the flute tech that repairs my flute (and the flutes from the symphony, Opera Company and many professionals). I've never had a problem with buildup and have never had my pads cleaned (or replaced) since I got my flu...

Was the person you took it to a Flute specialist? If not, it would be worthwhile finding a specialist. Also, using alcohol on the pads does not sound like a good idea to me. Here is how to get rid of the sticky keys: You will need: -lens towels from Lenscrafters (not the moistened ones) , or if you ...

The clicking sound in the keys is from the pads being dirty. I've never heard anyone attribute it to pressing too hard on the keys before. However, pressing hard on the keys is not a good idea for a variety of reasons. A light, fluid, even technique should be the goal.

I don't think my reply was very clear, I meant that the band director/local music shop would be good places to start looking for a teacher. I agree with the other posters that the band director would probably not be the best person to recommend a flute (I wouldn't necessarily trust the people at the...

Your band director and the local music store are good places to start, I would also check out the local conservatory of music. My #1 recommendation for anyone considering buying a flute (regardless of their playing level) is to try as many flutes as possible. You would be surprised by the variation ...

There are a variety of factors which contribute to the weight of a flute. Material is one factor, the wall thickness (thickness of the tube) is another, also any mechanical options such as split-E mechanism, C# trill, or B foot would also add weight. I'm not very familiar with Selmer flutes, but I w...

I agree with what pied_piper said, 5 weeks is not very much time at all! I am assuming that your teacher has you playing long tones? Never underestimate the importance of long tones, they're not just for warm ups. If you don't already have Trevor Wye's book on Tone I would highly recommend it. One t...

I try to make a point of including some rarely heard works in recitals.
So, what are some rarely played works that you think deserve to be played more?

A couple that come to mind are:
Suite Modal - Ernest Bloch
Sonata for Flute and Piano - Srul Irving Glick

I can suggest a couple of things that work for me. Try yawning a few times before you play and when you feel that your starting to close your throat to get used to the feeling of having an open throat. Also make sure you keep your chin up (don't tilt your head down to look at your music) when your p...