Ali P wrote:
I'm having trouble with lower D now - I can do E and F no problem at all, but as soon as I take my pinky off the foot joint to do D I can't get any sound.
There are a couple of possibilities. One is leaks....The very bottom of the range requires all of the pads on the flute to seal well, and even a tiny leak can prevent these notes from speaking. In the case of D, the only pads that don't matter are the ones associated with the Low C#, Low C, and Low B (if it's a B foot). Another possibility is that you're using the pinky on the D# touch as a balance point to hold the flute steady. Unfortunately, this doesn't work well, as the pinky needs to be able to move without affecting the position of the flute. If this is the case, try shifting the support of the flute to the base of your left index finger, your chin and the right thumb. A 3 point support system should be just fine to hold the flute still, and won't risk movement that prevents the production of certain notes. If at all possible, you should find a teacher and take lessons, even if it's just a few for now to be sure you're relearning everything properly. Aside from letting you play better, it will prevent you from developing bad habits that can lead to injury, potentially ending your flute playing career.
Anyone got any tips?? I've just noticed I can get a nice clear note out if I blow harder, but it sounds too high to be a low D if I compare it to the sound of B, A or G etc.
Also, try not to think of it as blowing harder, as this often times leads to overblowing. Try to imagine it as using a strong, well supported (and constant) airstream that is well focused and accurately aimed. That sounds a lot more complicated than it really is....Basically, make sure you're using the abdominal and intercostal muscles (often mistakenly referred to as the "diaphragm") to expel the air from your lungs, focus the airstream using your embouchure, and aim it at the far edge of the embouchure hole. This will create a full, clear tone. As for pitch, this can be adjusted by raising and lowering the airstream. Try experimenting with it if you wish. Simply making a minute change can greatly influence pitch. Raising the airstream will sharpen pitch (though too much will make you jump harmonics), and lowering it will flatten pitch.
