So. Many. Black. Notes.
When learning pieces for the flute, us flute players often encounter technically-challenging passages. Such is the life of a flutist!
Whether it is a sixteenth-note run or an intricate phrase filled with tricky articulations, these passages may appear to be daunting, or even discouraging. But fret not—with the right approach, you can turn this intimidation into confidence. Take these steps to make a hurdle into a walk in the park.
Slow it Down—Let’s Subdivide
It’s simple, but effective: taking the tempo down a notch or two can almost always boost your proficiency significantly for an excerpt. Don’t be afraid to slow the tempo down to even a snail’s pace. Once your metronome—yes, use a metronome—is half the intended tempo or less, I like to start by subdividing every note in the passage. Build your knowledge of the rhythm by understanding how many eighth notes or sixteenth notes are in each tone. Break ties and slurs; concentrate on internalizing the rhythmic values. Although messing with the articulation of a passage may seem counter-intuitive, it is easy to get lost when attempting to learn a passage. Removing articulation can actually help isolate the rhythm and get your flute technical excerpt mastered even quicker.
Get into the Swing of It
Well, what if your passage is just a string of sixteenth notes or thirty-second notes? Try altering the rhythm! Convert those pesky sixteenths into dotted rhythms, almost swung. And I repeat—use a metronome! Practicing the “long-short” pattern will help build control and make those fast notes feel much more manageable. This will force you to focus on precision and smooth finger movement. Feeling comfortable? Switch things up by practicing a “short-long” pattern! It may sound easy, but it is harder than you may think! Alternating between both rhythmic patterns will help your fingers become more even across the whole passage.
Hit that Record Button
From time to time, it is quite helpful to record yourself. It is an invaluable tool of the modern age that allows you to listen back and catch things you might miss while your mind is focused on all of the aspects of playing—rhythm, articulation, tone, etc. If some part of the passage you just played sounds questionable, simply listen to your recording and evaluate where the issue is. Is it your articulation? Your rhythm? Maybe you just missed a note! Recording yourself is one of the best ways to gain clarity on the flute.
As you become increasingly more confident with your skills in subdivision and rhythmic distortion, you can begin to build speed and increase the tempo on your metronome. Increment the BPM by four or five clicks at a time, and work your way back to the intended performance tempo. It is time to get those fingers moving!
Ready to start? Contact us to set up your first lesson today!
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Hi, I’m Devon! I play the flute and enjoy writing music in my free time.