How to Learn Scales on the Flute

Whether you're new to the flute or have been playing for years, learning scales can be a valuable asset for any musician. Scales help musicians learn the correct combination of notes in a particular key, therefore making it easier to learn new music and read.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

1. Choose your scale. If you're new to the flute, a basic C-scale or a B-flat scale is likely to your first. If you're a more advanced player, chromatic scales and scales for less-common keys help you master your instrument.
2. Learn the correct fingering. Nearly all instructional flute books have fingering charts that you can use for reference. If your book doesn't, fingering charts are available at any music store.
3. Start with the first two notes of the scale and practice the transition from the first note to the second with your fingers. Then repeat, actually playing the notes and not just the fingering. Repeat this process until you're comfortable with the transition and can play the two notes clearly.
4. Add another note, using the same process. When you can play the first three notes clearly, add another note and so on. If a particular sequence of notes gives you trouble, you can practice those notes alone until you're comfortable playing them, then go back and put it with the notes you have already learned.
5. Once you have all eight notes down, play the scale in reverse. Use the same techniques with sequences of notes you find challenging. Many scales have arpeggios tacked on to the end. Learn those too using the same process.

Tips & Warnings

• Practice the scales daily to master them, and your overall flute skills will increase dramatically.