Search found 31 matches

by jseligmann
Wed Jan 30, 2013 8:38 pm
Forum: Flute History and Instruments
Topic: Used Flutes - Do they really improve with age?
Replies: 8
Views: 7529

Re: Used Flutes - Do they really improve with age?

Unscientific? Yes. Belief does not make an assertion true: "I have loaned my flutes to students and colleagues, and when returned after a month or so, it had on certain notes, the characteristics of the borrower." "The point is that the tubing in old flutes made of non ferrous metals has hardened no...
by jseligmann
Thu Jan 24, 2013 3:47 am
Forum: Flute History and Instruments
Topic: Yamaha headjoint type K
Replies: 3
Views: 4856

Re: Yamaha headjoint type K

Glad things worked themselves out.
When it comes to sound alone, you will always sound like some variation of you.
by jseligmann
Fri Jan 18, 2013 12:27 am
Forum: Flute Basics
Topic: Looking for something to play!
Replies: 6
Views: 9484

Re: Looking for something to play!

Yes, flutetunes.com is a terrific resource.
Now, in your spare time, begin to learn to play by ear.
You'll be glad you did.
Start with simple stuff, and play along with anything you're really into.
by jseligmann
Wed Jan 16, 2013 11:02 am
Forum: Flute Playing and Practicing Basics
Topic: Resistence
Replies: 11
Views: 16762

Re: Resistence

Yes, as you say "headjoint/mouthpieces does not fix everything."
Of course, it is only the beginning.
But, for me, I couldn't get to the beginning until I learned a lot by playing :wink:
by jseligmann
Sun Jan 13, 2013 9:27 pm
Forum: Flute Playing and Practicing Basics
Topic: Weak embouchure
Replies: 2
Views: 6109

Re: Weak embouchure

Take your time and rest when you get tired. It's OK to push yourself, but not to the point of sustained pain. And it sounds to me like you may be working woking too hard. Try to let the airstream work with you. Let the air help form your embouchure, or at least try to go in that direction. Relax... ...
by jseligmann
Sat Jan 12, 2013 2:39 pm
Forum: Flute History and Instruments
Topic: Yamaha headjoint type K
Replies: 3
Views: 4856

Re: Yamaha headjoint type K

Why did you buy the headjoint in the first place? What were you looking for?
Maybe it was just GAS*

*http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/User:GreyC ... n_Syndrome
by jseligmann
Sat Jan 12, 2013 2:27 pm
Forum: Flute Playing and Practicing Basics
Topic: Resistence
Replies: 11
Views: 16762

Re: Resistence

"... adjusting the position of his headjoint/footjoint, simple changes in breathing technique, posture, and finger position, his playing and sound improved almost instantly." Phineas, yes, I did those things. But, for me, there's an essential playing component: It's the way in which I interact with ...
by jseligmann
Mon Jan 07, 2013 4:44 pm
Forum: General "Hang-Out" Place
Topic: Playing the flute with nerve damage
Replies: 4
Views: 6633

Re: Playing the flute with nerve damage

First off, amazing things can be played on the flute up to D3. Really. At worst, you may have to transpose some of the pieces you play so they don't take you higher than that note. Also, don't give up on your nerves. Twenty or so years ago, I had an operation that left me with no feeling from my rig...
by jseligmann
Sat Dec 22, 2012 7:01 pm
Forum: General "Hang-Out" Place
Topic: Indian classical music and flute
Replies: 4
Views: 17754

Re: Indian classical music and flute

I have been playing Indian-style flute for years. It is correct that, without the ability to bend notes, the western flute will never capture the authentic essence of Hindustani or Carnatic flute playing. I get that, but it doesn't stop me from having fun at it (and even making music, at times). Avi...
by jseligmann
Sat Dec 22, 2012 6:08 pm
Forum: Flute Playing and Practicing Basics
Topic: When will the "light come on" with my embouchure?
Replies: 11
Views: 18035

Re: When will the "light come on" with my embouchure?

The more you play, especially things you like to play, the more you will improve. And, although the progress will be evident, you may stay on a plateau for a while. Just know that you are not stuck, it's just part of the learning process; your mind and muscles are still making their adjustments even...
by jseligmann
Fri Dec 21, 2012 10:57 pm
Forum: Flute Playing and Practicing Basics
Topic: Resistence
Replies: 11
Views: 16762

Re: Resistence

Each player has to try a lot of different headjoints/flutes to find what works best for them. Absolutely true. My point was simply this: if one is looking for flutes/headjoints that offer more resistance than others, they can be found. The answer is not just in the player's embouchure. I asked a nu...
by jseligmann
Thu Dec 20, 2012 2:03 am
Forum: Flute Playing and Practicing Basics
Topic: Resistence
Replies: 11
Views: 16762

Re: Resistence

I started with flute a long time ago. I played it exclusively for twenty years. Mostly classical. Then I took up the sax, tenor and soprano. Played mostly the saxes, but always flute on the side for the next almost thirty years. It is through the saxophone that I learned about the importance of resi...
by jseligmann
Tue Dec 18, 2012 5:48 pm
Forum: General "Hang-Out" Place
Topic: Choosing a flute
Replies: 6
Views: 7176

Re: Choosing a flute

Go to ebay and be on the lookout for a Yamaha 211 flute in good condition in your price range. You cannot go wrong with this flute. Ebay prices for this flute vary greatly, so be vigilant; especially look for the newly listed ones for good deals... also be prepared to spend a few more pounds to have...
by jseligmann
Tue Dec 18, 2012 5:24 pm
Forum: Flute Playing and Practicing Basics
Topic: Piercings
Replies: 16
Views: 42355

Re: Piercings

Don't do it.
If you really are serious about playing the flute and are driven to pierce your skin, pierce somewhere else.