Wispy airy notes

Basics of Flute Playing, Tone Production and Fingerings

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sinebar
Posts: 183
Joined: Thu Dec 14, 2006 10:20 am

Wispy airy notes

Post by sinebar »

I appologize for all the newbie quesions and I appreciate everyones patience and help. Just another question if you folks don't mind. When I play my notes come out wispy or airy. Is this normal for a beginner or am I doing somthing wrong? I know it's probably hard to answer that without seeing me play. I know the flute is good becasue it was checked and adjusted by a tech.

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flutepicc06
Posts: 1353
Joined: Mon May 29, 2006 11:34 pm

Post by flutepicc06 »

No problem. If we weren't willing to help, we wouldn't be on a forum like this. Most likely your problem is just one of focusing your air and directing it where it needs to be. Chances are a lot of your air is missing the edge of the embouchure hole, and that you're using more air than you actually need to to compensate for the air that is missing the air reed. It will take some time to strengthen the muscles associated with forming an embouchure, and learn to use them, but with proper practice, and some attention to tone you'll learn to get a better sound. For now, just focus on the basics like holding the flute properly, getting a sound, and using proper fingerings. You'll get plenty of time to improve the tone once you have the basic technique down.

remnantpark
Posts: 185
Joined: Sun Sep 24, 2006 10:20 am

Post by remnantpark »

To answer your question. Yes to both parts.
Yes it is normal for a beginner.
And
Yes, when there is a wisp of air you can hear, you are doing something wrong. (I wouldn't say it's really "wrong" but, you get what I'm trying to say...)

When I started the flute, my tone was airy. For some of the 6th grade flute players in our band that just started the flute, I can hear air right next to them. So no problem, you can't expect perfect clear and beautiful tone as a beginner. IT's a matter of time, patience and intelligent work. (Ha ha, I got that from Trevor Wye's Tone book)

To fix it, focus your air. Don't think too much about it nor should you ignore it. And simply concentrate all on listening...It'll help. Make sure you're breathing correctly, too. I remembered I had to look in the mirror and see my embochure, test things out, look where it's supposed to be., etc. You won't get it in just a week, it'll take a long time. (According to my experience).

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