The quality of the flute impacts tone and how well you’ll play. The tension in each key should be the same or it will hinder your technique. The key pads should be in good condition, not torn or dried out. Pads that leak will make the flute unplayable. The flute's tone is affected by whether it's silver-plated or made from solid metal. Beginners usually start with less-expensive, silver-plated instruments; advanced players and professionals prefer the tonal qualities of pure silver, gold or platinum instruments. Search for the best brand and highest quality you can afford, because a poor-quality flute might sink your musical aspirations before you begin. Consider renting or leasing the instrument first to be sure it works for you.
Being a good flute player depends on breath control and proper lip formation. If you don’t master these techniques, you’ll never produce consistently good tones. Breathing must be supported by the diaphragm and abdominal muscles, or you won’t be able to control the flow of air. Lip formation, which is called embouchure, is similar to blowing across the top of a soda bottle. The lips and mouth muscles need to direct a consistent and sufficient flow of air into the flute’s mouthpiece. At the same time, the mouth muscles need to remain relaxed. A tight embouchure results in notes that are off key and makes it difficult to shift your embouchure as needed to transition smoothly from low to high notes. The next step is to learn the mechanics of finger placement and how to play the right notes.
A good flute player establishes a regular practice schedule and sticks with it. However, a good practice session does not mean simply pulling out your favorite song and attempting to play it. The focus should be on producing a solid, beautiful sound. Begin by playing long notes and work your way up and down the scale, paying close attention to the tone of each note. Don’t rush this process; just keep practicing until your breath control and embouchure produce consistent tonal quality. Next, practice finger techniques by working on speed and controlled finger motion. Play scales at slow speeds, then increase the speed, using a metronome to keep finger motion even. Finally, play real music, using progressive study books.
Even if you simply want to play the flute in your spare time, performing helps you become the best flute player possible. As you learn flute solos from a variety of music styles, you take the next step toward better flute playing because different styles will pinpoint any weaknesses in your technique. Performing also helps you develop the expressiveness that sets really good players apart from beginners.