Learn to Play Flute by Holding It Correctly
Flute Tips Covering Proper Hand Position and Posture
Dec 18, 2008
Once a beginning flute player has purchased a new flute or used flute and can assemble it properly, it’s time to start playing flute by learning to hold the new instrument.
When a flute player fingers certain notes, the flute is touching only the chin, her left index finger, right thumb and pinky. It takes a bit of practice to become comfortable with this balancing act. But within a few practice sessions, a flautist will find the instrument’s center of gravity and the finger position will feel natural.
Tips for Holding a Flute While Playing
A new flute player will pick up the instrument with the mouth hole aligned with her lips and the majority of the flute pointing off toward her right shoulder. Once the musician begins to play, she will use the spot just below her lower lip to stabilize the instrument in her hands.
Another main point of support for the flute is the lowest part of her left hand pointer finger. The side of the flute’s body rests here in the spot just between the two uppermost keys. The flute is not supported by any other part of her left hand. A flute player can begin by allowing the instrument to rest on this part of her left index finger then curling the fingertips of her left hand over the keys they’re responsible for pressing.
Playing Flute With Proper Left Hand Finger Position
Musicians can start by placing the fingers of their left hand correctly on the flute. The proper hand position for the left hand fingers and thumb is described below:
- The uppermost key is not covered by any finger because it is opened and closed with a mechanism further down the flute’s body.
- The left pointer fingertip hovers over the second key.
- Skipping the third key, the left middle finger hovers over the fourth key.
- The left ring fingertip hovers in its place over the fifth key.
- The left pinky rests near the G sharp key that protrudes out to the flute’s side just below the fifth key the left ring finger is covering.
- The left thumb stands ready to press the lowest of the cluster of thumb keys on the underside of the flute.
Once the fingers of the left hand are in position, it is time to place the right hand fingers on the instrument.
Playing Flute With Proper Right Hand Finger Position Next, musicians can place the fingers of their right hand correctly on the flute. The proper hand position for the right hand fingers and thumb is described below:
- The underside of the flute can rest on the right thumb.
- The right index, middle, and ring fingers hover over the three lowest keys on the flute’s body. This leaves two keys uncovered between the right and left hands.
- The left pinky can rest on, without pressing down, the footjoint’s first key to help stabilize the flute.
A flute players fingers should be curved over the keys. This will enable her to play more quickly and accurately. Her wrists should be bent and never stiff or strained. Sitting with her back straight will help provide the best breath support possible.
It’s key that every part of a flute player’s hands, fingers and wrists are relaxed while she plays. Tense muscles lead to bad habits, impede playing, and can be hard on the body. A musician who feels muscles beginning to tighten should set down their instrument and take a moment to stretch.
