Tips for middle octave for beginner please!

[workinprogress]

How long did it take for the second octave to feel and sound more natural to you? I've been playing for 10 weeks (using the Trevor Wye beginner book) and am just starting to work on the middle octave. I can make a sound for D, E, F & G, nothing higher than that, and I am starting to play pieces with D, E & F in them along with the lowest register. Sometimes the sound is airy, sometimes it's a mix between low and high and sometimes the low note appears but I can't make a nice tone yet.

I know that my tone and technique won't improve unless I practice a lot, so I'm trying not to get too frustrated with myself, but I would love to know if there are any tips for getting the middle octave to sound as rounded as the lower one? Is it just a case of practice, practice, practice?

I am using a Nuvo flute as it was all I could afford and I desperately wanted to start learning asap. I think the Nuvo might lean towards an airy sound anyway which I think is adding to my frustration. (Or is that a bad artist blaming their tools?!) I am saving up for a Trevor James 10X and I am hoping that will make playing more enjoyable!

Was there any particular tip that just "clicked" for you when learning the higher notes?

[pied_piper]

Well, it's not unusual for beginners to have an airy tone. Usually, it's because the embouchure (lip position) is too open which causes air to "spill" outside of the embouchure hole of the flute. That will also make it difficult to reach the upper notes. Practice long tones and work to get the best tone possible with a less airy sound. Do this with the notes you can play. It's also a good idea to practice with just the headjoint only (not inserted into the body). Again, practice long tones. Your best bet is with a private instructor who can watch you play and help you achieve a better tone.

See this site. It has some good tips for beginners.
http://www.jennifercluff.com/articles.htm

[workinprogress]

Thank you so much, I'll check that site out.

There are quite a few tone exercises in the Trevor Wye book and I enjoy them, so will keep practising.

Time to find a teacher!