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About Holly
Expertise
I can answer questions about learning to play the flute, reading music, problems encountered when playing, flute repertoire, practicing tips, and performing, as well as information about classical composers and their works. Please note that I am no longer accepting any questions about what kind of flute to buy, upgrading, flute brands, reselling, what a flute is worth, etc. I have answered many of these questions in the past, so please either view my answers in the the previously asked questions section or visit my website, which has a page about buying flutes: silentgalaxy.com/buyingflutes.html. Thanks!

Experience
I've played the flute since fourth grade, graduating with my master's degree in flute performance. I have taught at local music schools, given flute lessons for over ten years, have played in and soloed with several orchestras, chamber groups, and various other ensembles. For more information about me, visit my website at silentgalaxy.com. I love the flute, and I love helping people, so I welcome your questions!

Education/Credentials
Bachelor's and master's degrees in flute performance from Carnegie Mellon University.

You are here: Experts > Music/Performing Arts > Musical Instruments > Flute > High register

Flute - High register

Expert: Holly - 11/1/2009

Question
QUESTION: Holly,

Are some flute headjoints easier to play at the high register?

Ted.

ANSWER: Hey Ted,

Yes, there are headjoints that can make the flute's high notes easier to speak, or headjoints that make it easier to play softly, play loudly, play low notes, etc... the problem is, I can't tell you which ones do what. It's a completely personal experience, and different for every player, depending on how they play the flute and what lip shape they have and how they use their embouchure.

The differences in the headjoints come from the shape of the hole, the way the materials are used, and especially the edge of the hole (that's what the air meets and splits into / over), so try as many styles as possible to see which ones you like. Bottom line, it'll just take a lot of trials of various headjoints to find out what works for you. Good luck!

~Holly~

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Thanks very much, Holly. I've been experimenting with my Trevor James and have not had great success as yet with upper register. When I bought the flute I was looking for a model which would have good low register response, and for this the Trevor James is excellent. But, as you can see, I'm finding it very difficult to get a consistent sound at the upper few notes leading to C7.

Thanks again,

Ted.

Answer
Hey Ted,

I've had similar experiences before, too.... I ended up buying a Nagahara headjoint which worked out perfectly for me. I hope you can find a headjoint that keeps the good low register response while giving you the upper register sound you're looking for! Good luck with the hunt! :)

~Holly~

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