Back in the game after 20 years...

[djmojo]

Hey all,

I haven't touched a woodwind, let alone a flute, since high school, but I just picked up a Selmer student model and have decided to give it a go again. I used to be pretty decent, but after 20 years it's a bit of a challenge getting my chops back. The fingerings are not a problem, they all came back real quick - except for a few of the higher notes. But the tone quality appears to be a bit lacking and I am having a real hard time getting low C out consistently. I was wondering two things...

1. Is there any way to tell if my difficulties with tone, particularly the low note thing, is me or the instrument?

2. What would you guys recommend as far as books or repertoire to practice to help me get back up to speed?

Thanks and peace.

Mojo

[flutepicc06]

Hey all,


1. Is there any way to tell if my difficulties with tone, particularly the low note thing, is me or the instrument?

Sure is. Get someone else to loan you a flute that you know is in good working order (specifically that the pads are sealing well), and see if you can't get low notes more easily. If your Selmer's been sitting around for a while without being used, odds are the pads need adjustment/replacement to work properly...Even a small leak can make a big impact in how the low notes come out. Leaks can also be responsible for an airy tone. If it seems to be the flute, rather than you, take the instrument to a repair tech for assessment and repair. If it's you, start doing some tone exercises, and be patient. It's not at all unusual for beginners (even re-beginners) to have trouble with the low range. As your embouchure shapes up, you'll likely see an improvement.

2. What would you guys recommend as far as books or repertoire to practice to help me get back up to speed?

Aside from books and repertoire, I'd recommend a good, live teacher. They're far more valuable than any book, and will be able to provide you with exercises appropriate to your level and needs. Some of the standard books of exercises are the Trevor Wye books (I suggest the Omnibus Edition) and the Moyse De La Sonorite and Tone Development Through Interpretation, the Taffanel and Gaubert 17 Daily exercises, and etude books of varying levels. As for rep, I'll leave that up to your teacher, as they'll have a much better idea of what's appropriate for you than anyone here can.

[fluttiegurl]

I agree on both comments. The best things that you can do for yourself are get your flute a good COA at the very least (possibly an overhaul) and find a teacher. If a teacher is out of the question, ask a local band director if there are any advanced students who may be available to tutor you to get you going. I often send adults in the direction due to lack of space in my studio, being very careful about who I ask to do the tutoring.