Learning all by myself

[ABC]

I was wondering how practical is the idea of learning all by myself how to play the Flute.
Thanks.

[lula]

I think it's better if you have someone to teach you because you might
be making a mistake that affects your playing. I'm sure it is very
possible teaching yourself to play. Private lessons are a very good idea
so you can learn the basics of flute playing. But if you have a friend who
plays flute they might could teach you if you don't want to take lessons.
Hope I helped.

[pied_piper]

Just slightly less practical than teaching yourself brain surgery.

Seriously though, you can learn a lot on your own, especially if you have experience with another musical instrument. However, as Lula pointed out, it's better to take some lessons to be sure that you learn the proper embouchure (lip position) and don't pickup any bad habits along the way. I would strongly encourage at least a few lessons up front to be sure you get a good, proper start. If you can't take weekly lessons, try to do it at least once a month to be sure that you stay on track. It's much more difficult to unlearn bad habits than to do it right the first time.

[Bo]

I have learned by myself, but I already played the piano when I started the flute, so I knew at least the music theory.

[melodydad]

I thought I could teach myself having previously played another instrument (trumpet) to professional level and had a teaching diploma from a London music college. However, although the first year or so was OK, I finally 'hit the wall' where I was not getting any better, and decided to take lessons (45 minutes a week from a private tutor) and my playing has improved no end - and my enjoyment of playing has increased also. However, if you are going to teach yourself, consider the following:

1 You have to be amazingly self-disciplined and not let yourself get away with sloppiness. Self-deception is sooo easy!

2 If you always play things that you like to play - or can play, then you will not advance. Since I started to take lessons I have had to play stuff I never would have played otherwise.

3 All my self-teaching was unaccompanied - now I have to play with piano accompaniment - and get it right!

4 Get a metronome - and use it!

5 If at all possible record yourself and listen carefully to the recordings!

6 Make sure you have an inexhaustable supply of new music to improve your sight reading

On balance, I think the benefit of tuition is irrefutable.

(Having said all of that - I am now trying to teach myself to play the Theremin!!!!!)