Talking Flutes

Staying Connected With The Audience. E:289 Talking Flutes ’Bitesize’ with Jean-Paul Wright

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 there a flute playing G.O.A.T? Talking Flutes Episode 288 with Josh Johnson & Jean-Paul Wright

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 

Musical Liberation and Freedom! E:287 with Jean-Paul Wright

Don't listen if 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 
 
 

Finger Technique for Flute Players! E: 286 with Elizabeth Walker and Clare Southworth

"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

How to elevate your performance! Podcast 285 with Jean-Paul Wright

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.  For more information visit www.tjflutes.com

Would you ask a plumber to work for free? E:284 with Clare Southworth& Jean-Paul Wright

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 
 

Flight of the Bumblebee! E: 283 Talking Flutes Bitesize with Jean-Paul Wright

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 

Do flute players have unrealistic expectations? E:282 withClare Southworth & Jean-Paul Wright

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 

Improving performance and inspiring change in our Music! E: 281 Talking Flutes Bitesize with Jean-Paul Wright

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 

The Power of Creative Visualisation For Musicians E:280 with Jean-Paul Wright

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 company.  For more information visit www.tjflutes.com 

The pitfalls of positive thinking! E:279 Bitesize with Jean-Paul Wright

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 podcasts over six years, it really does still help!
'Talking Flutes', 'Talking Flutes Extra' and 'Bitesize' are podcast productions by the TJ flute company.  For more information visit www.tjflutes.com 

If it’s not broken then don’t try and fix it! Episode 278 with Clare Southworth & Jean-Paul Wright

"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 
 

The Virtuosic Power Of Curiosity! Episode 277 Bitesize with Jean-Paul Wright

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 Narrative of ’Syrinx’ the iconic solo flute piece! E:276 with Jean-Paul Wright

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 flute, also known as the Syrinx.
Debussy's "Syrinx" captures the essence of this myth through its music.
In this podcast Jean-Paul adds a modern day narrative to this music as to why this piece remains important today!
We may have been making this weekly podcast for six years (276 pods!) however and always need our listeners to rate and like Talking Flutes on whatever provider they are listening to this on. If you could do this then we would be extremely happy!
'Talking Flutes', 'Talking Flutes Extra' and 'Bitesize' are podcast productions by the TJ flute company.  For more information visit www.tjflutes.com 
 
 
 
 

The transformative nature of non-comparison! Talking Flutes Bitesize E: 275 with Jean-Paul Wright

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

Stimulating the mind to create the habit! E:274 with Ryan Fenwick& Clare Southworth

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 

Let’s Make Tonguing Easy! How to Double and Triple Tongue on the Flute. Podcast E:273 with Jean-Paul Wright

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
We may have made 273 Talking Flute podcasts over the past 6 years, however we still need to you to like and rate the podcast on whatever provider you are listening to this on!  
Talking Flutes, Talking Flutes Extra and Bitesize are podcasts by the TJ flute company.  For more information visit www.tjflutes.com  
 

The Chameleon Effect for flute players! E:272 with Catriona Ryan & Jean-Paul Wright

"Making musicians human to non musicians!"
"It's vital that flute players understand the importance of blending"
This week on Talking Flutes, Jean-Paul speaks with the brilliant Catriona Ryan - Principal Flute and flute section leader of the National Symphony Orchestra based in Dublin, Ireland.
During the podcast they speak about many subjects including the interest of the pre-concert talk to the audience, diversity within orchestras, the pressures of being an orchestral player and why non-musicians don't understand why musicians need to be paid a fee when they are asked to do an event.
Talking Flutes, Talking Flutes Extra and 'Bitesize' are podcast productions by the TJ flute company.  For more information visit www.tjflutes.com 
 

Three cheers for Theobald Boehm! Bitesize 15 Podcast 271 with Jean-Paul Wright

The flute genius that was Theobald Boehm!
This week we’re going to take a very brief look at one of the most influential figures in the evolution of the modern flute, Theobald Boehm.
The flute as we know is an ancient instrument.   A musical instrument that has a rich history, with various advancements and innovations over the centuries. Among the many influential figures in its evolution, Theobald Boehm stands out as one of the most prominent and impactful.
Boehm was a German flute maker and flute player who made significant contributions to the design and construction of the flute, revolutionising its key system, embouchure, and overall playability.
His innovative ideas and inventions have had a lasting impact on the flute world, making him a pivotal figure in the history of flute making. In this brief bitesize pod , we’ll delve into the life, work, and legacy of Theobald Boehm, exploring his important contributions to the flute and his lasting influence on flute making.
Theobald Boehm was born on April 9, 1794, in Munich, Germany. He grew up in a musical family, with his father, a goldsmith and amateur flutist, exposing him to music from a young age.
Boehm showed prodigious talent as a flutist and quickly gained recognition as a virtuoso performer. He made his debut as a flutist at the age of 16, and his exceptional playing skills earned him a reputation as one of the leading flutists of his time.
Apart from his musical talent, Boehm also had a keen interest in mechanics and engineering. He possessed a deep understanding of the physics of sound and the mechanics of wind instruments. This combined knowledge of music and engineering would later serve as the foundation for his ground-breaking work in flute making.
During his life he made significant innovations in flute key system design, embouchure, and it’s overall construction, which have had a lasting impact on flute playing and performance.
 
'Talking Flutes', 'Bitesize' and 'Talking Flutes Extra' are podcast productions by the TJ flute company.  For more information visit www.tjflutes.com 

Is there a ’Lizzo Effect” going on in the flute playing world! E:270 with Clare Southworth & Jean-Paul Wright

Lizzo vs Sir James Galway 
In 'Talking Flutes' this week Clare and Jean-Paul go walkabout in the seaside home town of Clare.  Subjects on the discussion table this week include the effect that Lizzo is having on the flute world and raising the profile of the instrument compared go the stratospheric effect that Sir James Galway had on the flute back in the 70's & 80's.
They also catch-up on the listener feedback from a subject they spoke about on a previous podcast when they looked at the subject of increasing diversity on the flute world. 
'Talking Flutes', 'Bitesize' and 'Talking Flutes Extra' are podcast productions by the TJ flute company.  For more information visit www.tjflutes.com

Unlocking Fear: How Musicians Can Perform to Their Full Potential - Episode 269

Fear is a natural human emotion that can affect anyone, including as many of us would have experienced…musicians.
It can manifest in various ways, such as stage fright, fear of failure, fear of judgment, or fear of not meeting expectations. When left unchecked, fear can hinder us from performing to our full potential and limit our growth as an artist. However, by understanding and addressing the underlying causes of fear, we can all begin to unlock our potential and thrive in our performances.
In this talking flutes bitesize, we will briefly explore the concept of fear in the context of musical performance, examine its effects on musicians, and discuss strategies for unlocking fear to perform to our full potential.
Understanding Fear in Musical Performance
Fear can arise from various sources in the context of musical performance. One common form of fear is stage fright, which refers to the anxiety or nervousness experienced before or during a performance. Stage fright can result from factors such as the pressure to meet high expectations, fear of making mistakes, fear of being judged by others, or fear of failure. Other forms of fear in musical performance may include fear of rejection or criticism, fear of not being good enough, or fear of losing control.
Fear can have both physical and psychological effects on us.
Physically, fear can manifest as symptoms such as increased heart rate, sweaty palms, tense muscles, shallow breathing, or trembling. These physical symptoms can affect musicians' performance by impairing their technical skills, vocal abilities, or overall comfort on stage. Psychologically, fear can cause negative thoughts, self-doubt, and a lack of confidence, which can further impact musicians' performance by affecting their mental focus, emotional expression, and connection with the audience.
The Effects of Fear on Musicians
The effects of fear on us as performers can be detrimental to our performance and overall well-being. Fear can limit our ability to ourselves fully, explore our artistic potential, and connect with our audience on a deeper level. It can create a barrier between us and our audience, preventing us from fully engaging in the moment and delivering our best performance. Fear can also erode our self-confidence, leading to self-doubt and a negative cycle of performance anxiety.
Furthermore, fear can impact our mental and emotional well-being, leading to stress, burnout, and even avoidance of performance opportunities.
As a result we may avoid challenging performances or shy away from taking risks due to fear of failure or rejection. This can limit our growth and prevent us from reaching our full performance potential. Fear can also affect a musicians' overall enjoyment of their craft, leading to a diminished sense of fulfilment and satisfaction in their performances.
 
'Talking Flutes', 'Bitesize' and 'Talking Flutes Extra' are podcast productions by the TJ flute company. For more information visit https://tjflutes.com 

Banish Comparison And Embrace Your Individuality : E:268 with Jean-Paul Wright

Liberating Your Power of Individuality and Why Musicians Should Embrace Their Unique Journey
 The world of music is a diverse tapestry, woven with countless individual threads, each carrying its own unique expression and style. However, amidst this rich tapestry, musicians often find themselves trapped in the relentless cycle of comparison. In this podcast Jean-Paul will briefly explore the detrimental effects of comparing oneself to others and highlight the transformative benefits of embracing individuality. By delving into the psychological, creative, and professional aspects, he'll also try to shed light on why musicians should resist the temptation to compare themselves and instead cultivate an environment of self-acceptance and personal growth.
Talking Flutes, Bitesize and Talking Flutes Extra are podcast productions by the TJ flute company.  For more information visit https://tjflutes.com 

Do You Get Performance Anxiety? Bitesize Episode 13 : Podcast 267 with Jean-Paul Wright

Performance anxiety is a common experience among musicians, regardless of their skill level or stage of career. The pressure to deliver a flawless performance in front of an audience or examiner can trigger a range of physical and psychological symptoms that hinder musicians from reaching their full potential. In this bitesize pod, we’ll explore the nature of performance anxiety, its impact on musicians, and effective coping strategies to manage and overcome this challenge. By understanding and addressing performance anxiety, musicians can unlock their true artistic potential and find fulfilment in their musical journey.
Performance anxiety is an intense fear or apprehension associated with performing in front of others. It stems from the fear of judgment, making mistakes, or not meeting one's own expectations. This anxiety can manifest in physical symptoms such as rapid heartbeat, sweaty palms, trembling, and mental symptoms like negative self-talk, self-doubt, and racing thoughts. Understanding the roots and manifestations of performance anxiety is essential for developing effective coping strategies.
 
Performance anxiety can significantly impact musicians' performance, confidence, and overall well-being. It may hinder technical proficiency, impair memory recall, and disrupt the flow of expression. Additionally, the fear of performance anxiety itself can become a self-fulfilling prophecy, perpetuating a cycle of anxiety in subsequent performances. It is crucial to acknowledge the emotional and psychological toll performance anxiety can take on musicians' lives.
This week Jean-Paul briefly explores what Performance Anxiety is and looks at some coping Strategies to help you navigate through, around and past!
'Talking Flutes', 'Talking Flutes Extra' and 'Bitesize' are podcast productions by the TJ flute company.  For more information visit www.tjflutes.com 

Is flute movement off-putting? E:266 with Clare Southworth & Jean-Paul Wright

Do you move too much when you are playing?
This week on Talking Flutes, Clare and Jean-Paul look at three questions which have been sent in by listeners.
1. What do we think about musicians moving around when playing?
2. Blind or open auditions to increase diversity
3. Flute sustainability
Please rate and like Talking Flutes with whatever provider you are listening on and keep sending in your flute or performance related questions to us on our socials @talkingflutes on Instagram and Facebook or via our email flutepodcasts@gmail.com  

The legacy of Louis Lot flutes. Bitesize E: 12 Podcast 265 with Jean-Paul Wright

This week we’re taking a very brief look at the iconic Louis Lot Flute Company and their legacy of excellence and innovation.
The first Lot flutes were made in 1855 and over 168 years later, Louis Lot flutes have earned a reputation for their exceptional craftsmanship, exquisite tonal quality, and outstanding performance capabilities.
In this brief pod, we’ll very briefly delve into the fascinating story of the Louis Lot Flute Company, exploring its origins, its contributions to the development of modern flutes, its notable achievements, and its enduring legacy in the world of flute manufacturing.
'Talking Flutes', 'Talking Flutes Extra' and 'Bitesize' are podcast productions buy the TJ flute company. For more information visit www.tjflutes.com