How do I change between the 1st and 2nd octave on the flute?

Question

I am a beginner flautist, and when I try to play notes in the 2nd octave, they often come out as the lower octave, or start at the higher one and then change between the two. I know its something to do with the direction of air flow or something, but could somebody please explain to me how to get well differentiated pitches between the two octaves.

Answer 1

Put down the flute for a minute. Hold your forearm up in front of your face, vertically - fingers up, elbow near your ribs. Using just your lips, move a beam up air up and down your forearm, from elbow crook to fingertips. (This is like changing the angle of window shades, right?) Do not blow harder - this is AIM, not force. Make sure that your airstream is small, like the interior of a drinking straw. Pick up the flute, and start with a note that uses closed fingers in both hands - like F (notes that use only closed fingers in the LH are harder! Only *Band* instruction books start there - they want you to match the BAND, but this is harder on the flute!) Try directing the air so that you get the lower and upper notes in your control - aim more down for the lower F, and more up for the higher F. When that is working try Eb, and keep the C key open for the higher one (easier than E - long explanation why, just trust me), then try G. still good? - try A. That's enough for now. Go back later, and see if these still work.



As you expand lower and higher, things get slightly harder - do not get discouraged. Low D is not easy to get, but the 2nd octave one is - open that C key! If A is working well, then try Bb. C (third space) up to the higher C ( 2 leger lines) might have to wait a bit.



Here is a good fingering chart: www.wfg.woodwind.org YES - whether you open that Eb key or not, or the C key or not, makes a BIG difference - be aware of what you are doing!



However,the most critical part of the flute is the EMBOUCHURE - you really need a good flute teacher to get you going with that.



Good luck - and get a good flute teacher ASAP.

Answer 2

Flute Octaves

Answer 3

You must use "overblowing" technique when the fingering for the low and the high note is the same. Basically, you just have to use the diaphragm better and use more air whilst tightening the embouchure a bit and tongueing a bit better. Please consult a flute teacher for more detailed information and the crucial visual hints.

Answer 4

If you want to reach a higher octave, position your lips so they are facing upwards. Then blow fast are high, as if you're trying to touch something above your head, with your air.

It's actually pretty easy.

And for lower octaves, slow down your air.

I hope I explained it easily. Best of luck. :)