stabilizing the flute

Ronbo · Post by **Ronbo** » Sun Aug 17, 2003 6:48 pm

Nano, that breathing action sounds like it would be very helpful to practice. Unfortunately, in my younger, dumber days, I had my septa deviated to the point that my nose only serves to reference the rest of my face. Do you have any breathing suggestions for us mouth-only breathers? Sometimes, it is tough to breathe properly and sufficiently, particularly during a fast tune.

Post by **Nanohedron** » Mon Aug 18, 2003 10:43 am

Hi, Ronbo.

I think you can do the same thing anyway. If you can inhale with a feeling that the breath rapidly "falls" into the lungs rather than being "dragged" in, your inhalation is more efficient. Actually, all one has to do is expand the diaphragm without making a conscious effort at inhaling, and you've already inhaled without trying to a pretty fair degree, and quietly, too. If you need more air, you adjust for that. It works for me. Your mileage may vary, depending on details such as health or the need to practice at this method if it appeals to you. Remember, quick intentional diaphragm expansion rather than making an effort of breathing is the idea; air intake almost seems like an afterthought, and is deceptively fast this way, or so I find.

That's the working model. Unfortunately, from time to time I forget to breathe, and wind up gasping anyway.

Hope this makes some sense.

Best,
N

Ronbo · Post by **Ronbo** » Mon Aug 18, 2003 11:18 am

Thanks, Nano.l I get the idea a lot better after your clarification. It is definitely a practice that requires practice, though.

Post by **Nanohedron** » Mon Aug 18, 2003 11:23 am

Ronbo wrote:...It is definitely a practice that requires practice, though.

Yes, especially in that one's breathing isn't as obvious, and we have to overcome the impression that we haven't breathed, which can be unsettling.

Dana · Post by **Dana** » Mon Aug 18, 2003 12:05 pm

I want to add to all this good advice on breathing that an open, relaxed throat is essential for quick/deep breaths. The soft palate must be raised, and the throat opened, much like when you yawn. (Practice this approach very much, and you WILL go to sleep).

Post by **Nanohedron** » Mon Aug 18, 2003 12:14 pm

Very essential! I forgot that point. Also, an open-throat-to-lungs tract is part of a better resonance to the flute; flute and player become one indeed.