Dynamics on flute - how to play forte in low register and piano in high register
Detailed guide for intermediate - advanced players plus suggested resources
This is a video request from one of my grade 8 students, Elena.
Timestamps:
00.00 - 02.26 Basics
02.26 - 05.45 How to play forte in the low register; piano in high register;
forte in high register
05.45 - 06.12 Middle register - mf, p and f
06.12 - 06.50 Piano in the low register
06.50 - 07.54 Summary
07.54 - 09.39 Importance of checking support & tuning
09.39 - 13.40 Resources
13.40 - General musicianship/listening skills - why these are super important
Disclaimer/Please read:
As indicated in the text on a section of this video, I teach (unapologetically) jaw movement. I have been reading recently exchanges online between teachers expressing concern about moving the jaw ; some think this could lead to tmj. I've been taught jaw movement both as a student at RWCMD in my teens but also at GSMD and in Paris with Rampal. I've also played in masterclasses where James Galway and Geoffrey Gilbert referred to it and I've had no reported problems from students in over 40 years of teaching flute - furthermore its an effective and efficient way (perhaps the only way? I can't think of another...) to maintain the timbre while changing dynamic level so I am going to continue teaching it but you will need to decide whether to use it or not based on your research and if you learn with a teacher who is opposed to it, obviously, follow their lead. If you decide to try it, be gentle and if it hurts - then stop! (probably a good rule for most/all things!).
