New member - hello

[O'Dwyer]

Firstly, I'll start by saying Thank you - I've joined because in 30 minutes your forum has answered so many of my flute playing queries.

Three weeks ago I bought a Trevor James flute and started to teach myself how to play - so have come up against some puzzling issues like the lower notes not sounding right. But thanks to this forum I now realise what I need to do.

In a month or so, I hope to find a flute teacher in my area but thought I'd learn the basic fingering prior to lessons.

I'm currently practising 2 x 30 mins each day as my technique tires causing me problems - can I ask is that the right approach to avoid bad habits forming due to tiredness or would a solid hour be better forcing improvement?

[lula]

My advice is to work yourself up to an hour. Don't want to overwhelm yourself all at once. Good luck with the flute playing.

[numptie]

Hi there,

welcome to the forum!

I only started a while ago - I'm now trying to play the Brandenburg Concerto lol. I've almost learnt how to read the first note

I find my lips dry and my mouth goes numb if I practice too much. Maybe varying exercises over 20 minutes; 5 minute break and then resume for two or three cycles?

The Trevor James student flute has a sweet tone. I like mine a lot.

[Bo]

I think you will get used to it. I got tired too in the beginning, my arms felt so heavy, but now the pain has gone when I play.

[Arlee]

Also in your practicing you should be mindful of any tenseness in your throat arms and hands. Being tense while playing not only can make you feel tired sooner but also over the long term can lead to injuries and will prevent you from being able to do certain things (like playing really fast passages).

[O'Dwyer]

Thank you for the replies guys - you make me feel most welcome.