How to Play the Irish Flute

Learning how to play an instrument is never an easy task. One of the most difficult instruments to master has long been the flute. The Irish flute, while a bit more simple in construction than the traditional modern flute, can be a challenge to learn because of its deceptive simple design. However, you learn to play the Irish flute well and capture the magic of this melodic and playful instrument.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Irish Flute

1. Begin by acquainting yourself with the instrument. Learn how to properly hold and play the flute before embarking on any further instruction. Also, learn how to properly hold the instrument, mouth position/embouchure, and what good form looks like on the instrument.

2. Grasp the basics of music theory including how to play major and minor scales and how to read sheet music. Practice playing scales daily, and work primarily on your technique and tone while playing.

3. Understand that Irish flute music has a long history of ornamentation. Learn different trills and tremolo techniques, since it will be used throughout Irish flute music and is a staple of the musical genre. Master ornamentations like cuts, rolls and finger vibrato to create a more authentic flute sound.

4. Play with a well trained player to help you get a sense of how the spirit of the music should be captured. Watch and listen carefully to a skilled Irish flute player to help you learn stylistic differences between the Irish flute and the traditional flute.

5. Get a firm grasp on the basic song styles of the Irish flute. Reels and jigs are two styles. The most recognizable Irish style is the slip jig. The hornpipe, with a swing feeling and the air, a haunting melodic tune, all capture the mystery of Irish culture.

Tips & Warnings

• Learning proper breathing techniques are crucial to playing the Irish flute well. Breath control will make or break a good flutist, so get proper instruction in breathing basics.
• Get a fingering chart to help you learn the basics fingerings; it is especially important for beginners or people who are used to playing the traditional Bohm flute.
• Take good care of your instrument, and invest in an instrument that is relative to your skill level. There's no need to buy an expensive wooden flute if you are just beginning; have fun with a cheap beginners flute and work your way to a more impressive style.

Resources

• This website has some great basic Irish flute information
• Search here for instruments and playing tips.