Category Archives: Forte Flutes Lessons and Resources

About the flute

The flute can turn air into many different, mesmerising sounds. Unlike reed instruments, there is no resistance for the player to blow against, the player themselves bends and shapes the air to create their best tone. It is hardly surprising that the flute has a special place in mythology, most notably the Greek God Pan (the subject of much music, including solo flute piece, Debussy’s Syrinx).

Sight reading…

… it’s not as scary as you think! Every time you learn a new piece of music you are sight reading – teachers and students shouldn’t treat it as an intense part of the exam there’s no way to prepare for Prepare in advance: Yes you can practise sight reading. Whether this is with piecesContinue reading “Sight reading…”

Time Signatures

Time signatures can be confusing and are something your teacher should explain to you early on. However, as we encounter more and more time signatures, it is worth clarifying the theory and having a handy video to revise with! This is our general rule: Watch the video on beats, bars and time signatures then seeContinue reading “Time Signatures”

Articulation terms

Lets begin with the basic articulation terms and styles. These are the most common symbols you will find. Staccato – a dot above the note means it should be detached (often, but not always, short) Slur – a curved line connects different pitches that are to be played smoothly (only tongue the first note ofContinue reading “Articulation terms”

Performance directions – basic music terms

Specific music terms are used by composers to direct performers. It tells us their intention and an idea of the mood or style to perform it in.

A beginner’s guide to basic music terms and their interpretation.