Monday, July 10, 2006

Throat noises while playing flute

Last year I developed a hum in my throat when I played the flute.
A flute teacher tells me to simply take a huge step back and just work long
tones, no vibrato,on notes where there's no humming.
Does anyone have any suggestions on how to relax the throat, etc,?,

Dear Flutenetter
It seems that most flutists are helped in their throat-noise by trying to *deliberately* sing while playing. I've seen it work quickly and effectively, and
lead to much better tone too. Singing at the same time as playing has some really
useful side-effects, as well as teaching you how to turn your throat "on" and "off".
Full instructions here:

http://www.jennifercluff.com/throaty.htm

And also see Robert Dick's book "Tone Development Through Extended Technique" where he has several pages of singing/playing experiments.

It's not only useful to do it to get RID of throat noises, it's useful to do it as a tone improver.
Lips become more flexible, air use becomes more sustained, resonance is increased etc.....well worth learning, in my opinion.
Plus brings you into complete control over whether your throat closes or not while playing. Try it; you'll be amazed at the multiple benefits!
Best,
Jen
Comments (2)
Blogger prithwin said...

Hi,
I have been struggling a lot with this over the past 6 years or so. I have finally managed to sort out the Issue, whosoever is struggling with this really needs to revisit their vibrato technique, and eliminate the fast,throaty vibrato when having their lungs full of air. you can do it to finish a note when you are almost running out of breath.

Friday, November 20, 2015 7:42:00 PM

 
Blogger jen said...

Hi prithwith,
Yes, you're right.
A tight throat, trying to "throw the air" with the throat, and running out of air while playing (not planning your breathing well) all cause human beings to vibrate their throat with noise. So true.
Best, Jen

Friday, November 20, 2015 8:46:00 PM

 

Post a Comment