Do notes sound more airy to the flutist than to the audience?

[JustinDad]

Do notes sound more airy to the flutist than to the audience? I am wondering if I am being over-critical of myself.

I just started practicing this week. I am using a Jean Paul FL-220. I am practicing with the head joint only, and also notes B-A-G. While working to eliminate the airy portion of the sound, I oscillate between the high & low octave of each note. I do find cracking between the octaves, which is probably where I'm somewhat playing both octaves. With the head joint only, I get much better sound when I cover the end with my hand - full open needs more practice.

Since I'm not finding a point between the octaves [harmonics?] that does not sound airy, I'm wondering if I am being over critical of myself and perhaps some one listening would not think the tone is quite so airy.

[Flutey McFluteface]

record yourself playing and see for yourself.