Since you have been playing the flute for a while, you may not even realize how you learned the many facets of being an instrumental musician that are now an integral part of you. As a teacher you need to break down everything you want to teach into small, teachable bites which allow the student to have success in every step along the way.
Here is a basic list of topics as reminders for structuring a beginner’s lessons. Add components you want to include as lessons progress and you are creating a checklist for your studio on topics to cover. Be sure to keep track of your own favorite resources for explanations, diagrams or of course web links.
- Flute assembly
- Flute alignment
- Lip Placement
- Embouchure Shape
- Hand position
- Hold flute up
- Hold a note
- Tone
- Breathing
- Tonguing
- Music Notation
- Clapping
- Counting
For Band or Orchestra Students –
- Following a director
- Conducting Patterns
NOTE: When a student arrives unprepared for a lesson or had a rough day at school/home or work, working on music notation, clapping and counting can still move them along their learning continuum without the need to play the flute.
