Talking Flutes!

How much should I practice over the festive period? In this 7th Festive episode (Podcast #292), gosh this is actually the 7th annual Christmas Talking Flutes podcast that we've made, Jean-Paul and Clare cover some of the flute playing questions that you've sent in.  They also speak about what they will be doing over the festive period, including the obligatory jigsaw. The opening and closing 'Jingle Bells' track is played by the brilliant Barry Griffths aka Grizzlyflute on social media. Wishing you a very Merry Christmas and we look forward to being back with our next podcast on New Year's  Day. 'Talking Flutes', 'Talking Flutes Extra' and 'Bitesize' are podcast productions by the TJ flute company.  For more information visit www.tjflutes.com 

The pitfalls and solutions to over thinking! As musicians, it really easy to fall in to the trap of setting up a recursive loop pattern of over thinking.  It could be about a difficult piece or passage that is causing us issues, a past performance or something that's happening in our lives outside of music, which is then having a major impact on it! In this short podcast, which includes a short creative visualisation, Jean-Paul looks at what we can do to break the thinking chain to enable us to be free as musicians. 'Talking Flutes', 'Talking Flutes Extra' and 'Bitesize' are podcast productions by the TJ flute company. For more information visit www.tjflutes.com 

Revamp your flute journey by diving into the latest episode of "Talking Flutes" with Jean-Paul and Clare down in Hove (south of England), unraveling the many mysteries of setting up your very own flute studio. Join the conversation with them both as they tackle more intriguing questions from fellow enthusiasts. Discover the liberating yet occasionally frustrating aspects of establishing your flute teaching practice. Uncover the secrets behind the invigorating experience of incorporating group lessons into your teaching repertoire. Plus the importance of pushing yourself to reach new heights with the instrument you have whilst always trying to be the best flute playing version of yourself. "Talking Flutes," "Talking Flutes Extra," and "Bitesize," are captivating podcast productions by the TJ flute company. Elevate your flute expertise and explore more at www.tjflutes.com. 

The importance of being in the moment! Music has the remarkable ability to transcend time and space, inviting us to journey through emotions and stories crafted by composers. When a musician steps onto the stage, they become the conduit through which these emotions flow, seeking to communicate with their audience on a profound level. However, achieving this connection requires more than technical prowess. It demands a deep and unwavering link between the performer and the music, a connection that stretches beyond notes and rhythms. In this bitesize pod, we’ll explore the significance of staying connected with the music when performing a piece, delving into the impact it has on both the performer and the listener. Through examples and practical exercises, we unravel the art of being present in the musical moment. 'Talking Flutes', 'Talking Flutes Extra' and 'Bitesize' are podcast productions by the TJ flute company.  For more information visit www.tjflutes.com 

Is Josh the ultimate flute nerd? This week Jean-Paul meets up with flute player and multi-instrumentalist Josh Johnson who has traded New York for London, to ask him flute questions that have been sent in by listeners. 1. Is there a G.O.A.T? 2. What makes a flute nerd? 3. What's the most special flute you've played? 4. Who are your five favourite flute players? 5. Why do people get upset with vibrato? 6. What are your favourite makers of piccolo, C flute, alto and bass? 7. Why should somebody attend a flute convention? along with other related questions. 'Talking Flutes', 'Talking Flutes Extra' and 'Bitesize' are podcast productions by the TJ flute company.  For more information visit www.tjflutes.com 

Don't listen of you're driving!! This week is a very different podcast and one that whilst it has been requested quite a few times by listeners, we have been at a loss as to how to actually work it in. You see, many of our listeners catch-up each week on their way to work in the car, train or walking.  This podcast should not be listened to if you are driving or walking as we've succumbed! This week we have a creative visualisation exercise on the subject of ‘Liberation & Empowerment’ which many of you will find easier if you are able to close your eyes. So please switch the podcast off if you’re catching up whilst driving or walking and make sure you listen when you are able to sit down for 10 minutes. Please take a moment to 'Like' and 'Rate' this podcast on whatever provider you are listening to this on.  It really does help! 'Talking Flutes', 'Talking Flutes Extra' and 'Bitesize pods are podcast productions by the TJ flute company.  For more information visit www.tjflutes.com     

"Don't be stuck to the music stand!" This week on Talking Flutes Clare speaks once again with the fabulous Elizabeth Walker about finger technique.  Amongst many important topics, they explore why technique is only as good as your sound, correct hand positioning, discuss open vs closed holes and speak about the why controlled relaxation allows movement. A really important and interesting pod which covers a large swathe of flute study questions that we often get asked! Don't forget to follow us on Instagram and Facebook @talkingflutes and also send in any flute or performance related question to us at flutepodcasts@gmail.com  'Talking Flutes', 'Talking Flutes Extra' and 'Bitesize' are podcast productions by the TJ flute company.  For more information visit www.tjflutes.com

Exploring Tonal Colours & Expression!  Music is a universal language that transcends boundaries, evokes emotions, and communicates feelings that words often struggle to convey. At the heart of this communication lies the concepts of tonal colours and expression, essential elements for musicians to effectively communicate their musical narratives. For flute players, mastering tonal colours and expression is not just a technical feat; it is a transformative journey that leads to profound musical interpretations and deeply resonant performances. This short bitesize pod delves into the significance of tonal colours and expression for flute players, examining how these aspects are created and harnessed to captivate audiences and convey emotions. Please continue to rate and like our Talking Flutes podcast channel.  After 6 years of these weekly pods we really do appreciate you showing your support this way ❤️ 'Talking Flutes', 'Talking Flutes Extra' and 'Bitesize' are podcast productions by the TJ flute company

Why you should always ask for a fee and ignore the "It will be good for your profile line!" This week on 'Talking Flutes', Clare and Jean-Paul are walking along a windy Brighton Beach in the south of England answering more questions from listeners. Subjects such as: 1. Respecting yourself and your craft = asking for a fee! 2. Is it possible to become a good flute player if you start later in life? 3. What is the measure of a good musician? 4. How much flexibility do we have with a piece of music? Six years and 284 podcasts later we still need you to rate and like 'Talking Flutes' on whatever podcast provider you are listening to this on.  Thank you so much for being with us on this podcast journey. 'Talking Flutes', 'Talking Flutes Extra' and 'Bitesize' are podcast productions by the TJ flute company.  For more information visit www.tjflutes.com   

Nikolai Rimsky-Korsakov's 'Flight of the Bumblebee' stands as one of the most recognisable and enduring compositions in classical music. This frenetic and virtuosic piece, originally part of his opera "The Tale of Tsar Saltan," has captured the imagination of both musicians and audiences for over a century. Its rapid tempo, intricate melodies, and technical demands showcase the composer's ingenuity while offering a captivating musical experience that transcends time and genre. In this short podcast Jean-Paul briefly delves into the nuances of "Flight of the Bumblebee," exploring its historical context, musical structure, technical challenges, and enduring legacy.  'Talking Flutes', 'Talking Flutes Extra' and 'Bitesize' are podcast productions by the TJ flute company.  For more information visit www.tjflutes.com 

Is honesty the best policy? In Talking Flutes this week, Jean-Paul and Clare are sitting outside the coffee shop in the seaside town of Hove in Southern England answering more questions from listeners. They look at 'False Expectations' and the role of teachers in guiding, the inclusion of popular music in a recital performance and ask the question "Can you tell if a young flute player has the X factor?" 'Talking Flutes', 'Talking Flutes Extra' and 'Bitesize' are podcast productions by the TJ flute company.  For more information visit www.tjflutes.com 

How cultivating happiness improves performance and inspires change. For musicians, the pursuit of excellence often takes centre stage, but equally important is the ability to find happiness in the musical journey. In this essay, we will explore strategies to cultivate happiness among musicians, enabling them to derive greater enjoyment from their performances. By understanding the link between happiness and musical expression, practicing mindfulness, nurturing well-being, and fostering a positive mindset, musicians can create a harmonious balance between technical mastery and emotional fulfilment. This Bitesized pod with Jean-Paul Wright delves in to some of the areas which prevent us from being happy and appreciating our performance. 'Talking Flutes', 'Talking Flutes Extra' and 'Bitesize' are podcast productions by teh TJ flute company.  For more information visit www.tjflutes.com 

Creative visualisation is a potent mental tool that allows individuals to harness the power of their imagination to achieve their goals and aspirations. For musicians, this practice can be transformative, leading to enhanced performance, improved creativity, and heightened self-confidence. By engaging in guided visualisation techniques, musicians can tap into their inner potential and unleash their full musical capabilities. In this Talking Flutes extra podcast, Jean-Paul explores the various ways in which creative visualisation can empower musicians and contribute to their artistic growth and success. At the end of this short pod, there is a 7 min creative visualisation exercise with accompanying soundscape for you to use to practice. Please continue to send in your comments and suggestions for future podcasts to flutepodcasts@gmail.com or you can send them via our Facebook page and Instagram pages @talkingflutes 'Talking Flutes', 'Talking Flutes Extra' and 'Bitesize' are podcast productions by the TJ flute

This might be quite contentious however the process of positive thinking may be an anchor when you've done the work, however it's certainly not the panacea! Positive thinking, often championed as a cornerstone of personal development and success, has gained widespread popularity as a tool for overcoming challenges and achieving goals. For musicians, maintaining a positive mindset might seem essential to navigate the ups and downs of a creative journey. However, a closer examination reveals that the unbridled embrace of positive thinking can have detrimental effects on musicians' growth, creativity, and overall well-being. This short pod briefly delves into the complexities of the "positive thinking" paradigm, exploring its potential pitfalls and advocating for a more balanced approach that acknowledges the value of embracing both positive and negative aspects of the musical experience. Please continue to like and rate this podcast on whatever provider you're listening to it on as despite us having made 279 po

"Wearing red socks is the least of your problems!" Natural movement Vs waving around? In the part two of the podcast recording where Jean-Paul and Clare meet in a coffee shop in the seaside town of Hove, they catch up with more questions and comments from listeners.  Can there be 'excessive' movement on the flute and what's the correct angle to have the flute when playing? 'Talking Flutes', 'Talking Flutes Extra' and 'Bitesize' are podcast productions by the TJ flute company.  For more information visit www.tjflutes.com   

Curiosity is a powerful driving force that fuels the creative endeavours of musicians. As a musician, cultivating and embracing curiosity can lead to a plethora of benefits, from personal growth to artistic exploration. In this bitesized pod, we will delve into the profound ways in which curiosity can enhance the musical journey. By examining how curiosity fuels musical creativity, fosters innovation, encourages interdisciplinary exploration, and cultivates lifelong learning, we will uncover the transformative power of curiosity for musicians. Please don't forget to 'Like' and 'Rate' us on the provider you are listening to this on.  We may be 6 years old and 277 podcasts later, but your likes and ratings really do help! 'Talking Flutes', 'Talking Flutes Extra' and 'Bitesize' are podcast productions by the TJ flute company.  For more information visit www.tjflutes.com

The iconic "Syrinx" by Claude Debussy is a piece for solo flute that has captivated audiences and flute players alike since its composition in 1913. It is one of the most iconic and frequently performed works in the flute repertoire, known for its hauntingly beautiful melodies, rich harmonies, and innovative use of the flute as a solo instrument. But what is the narrative behind this piece? What story does it tell? In this podcast, which includes a performance by flute player Barry Griffiths, I’ll attempt to delve into the narrative of "Syrinx" and explore its musical and cultural significance. At its core, "Syrinx" is a musical representation of the mythological story of Syrinx from ancient Greek mythology. In the myth, Syrinx was a nymph who caught the attention of the Greek god Pan, the god of nature, shepherds, and rustic music. As Pan pursued her, Syrinx sought refuge from him by transforming herself into a reed. Pan, unable to capture her, instead fashioned the reeds into a musical instrument - the Pan

Music, a universal language that transcends boundaries, has the power to evoke emotions, connect people, and ignite the imagination. Musicians, the creators and conduits of this expressive art form, often find themselves grappling with the paradoxical impulse to compare their work to that of others. In a world inundated with constant stimuli and comparisons, embracing a mindset of non-comparison can be transformative for a musician's artistic journey. In this Bitesize pod Jean-Paul takes a quick look  into the profound effects of adopting a non-comparative outlook, exploring how it nurtures creativity, enhances authenticity, and cultivates a sense of fulfilment within the musical experience. 'Talking Flutes', 'Talking Flutes Extra' and 'Bitesize' are podcast productions by the TJ flute company.  For more information visit www.tjflutes.com

What musicians can learn from golf pros! In Talking Flutes this week, Clare Southworth speaks with PGA golf professional Ryan Fenwick about his journey from player to top coach and how there are many similarities with Clare's own path from performer to flute professor. Not only personal similarities but also ways in which musicians and golf professionals approach their work and practice.  There are however obvious differences as golf players have a large supportive and active team behind them whilst musicians in effect, have only themselves.  Are we damaging our profession by not offering the supportive environment that sports people have around them? Talking Flutes, Talking Flutes Extra and 'Bitesize' are podcast productions by the TJ flute company.  For more information visit www.tjflutes.com 

How to fast tongue on the flute plus an easy hack! The flute as we know (this is a flute podcast after all) is such a beautiful and versatile instrument. One important aspect of flute playing is articulation, which involves controlling the initiation and termination of notes to create distinct and precise musical phrases. Now I know that we’ve done some pods on the subject of tonguing, and why articulation is not an easy one sized fits all technique for every piece and musical genre, however we’ve received several questions on how to tongue fast in the past couple of weeks and this next 10 mins whilst it is by no mean definitive as let’s face it, it’s a bitesize short pod, that said, let’s jump in to the world of fast tonguing and see where it takes us:  Double and triple tonguing are techniques used in flute playing to articulate repeated or rapid notes in a musical passage. They involve using the tongue to create a sequence of articulated sounds, allowing for clear and precise execution of fast passages.  T