Talking Flutes!

In the latest episode of Talking Flutes, hosts Jean-Paul and Clare Southworth take us on an enlightening journey through the realms of intrinsic and extrinsic motivation, particularly in the context of musicianship. Whether you're a novice flute player or a seasoned professional, understanding what drives you is crucial to your growth and success. The duo wastes no time diving into the topic at hand: intrinsic versus extrinsic motivation. Clare explains that intrinsic motivation is the drive to complete a task because it is inherently interesting or enjoyable, while extrinsic motivation is driven by external rewards. Jean-Paul and Claire share personal anecdotes that highlight their early experiences with motivation. Jean-Paul recalls how his initial motivation to play the flute was to keep his mother happy and avoid her moaning at him. On the other hand, Clare's journey began with a genuine love for the instrument, spurred by her curiosity and the joy it brought her. These stories underline the complex inter

Unlocking the Magic of Your Flute’s HeadJoint The head joint of a flute is often overlooked, but it plays a crucial role in defining the instrument's sound quality. In the latest episode of Talking Flutes Extra, Jean Paul Wright takes us on a fascinating journey through the world of flute head joints, revealing how this small component can make or break your performance. Jean Paul begins by explaining that the head joint is essentially the flute’s voice box. It’s where your breath transforms into sound, and its design directly impacts your tone quality, articulation, and projection. While many flute players focus on embouchure, posture, and technique, the design and cut of the head joint are equally important. The episode delves into the specifics of head joint design, particularly the embouchure hole and lip plate. Jean Paul explains that tiny adjustments in the embouchure hole's design can make an enormous difference in sound production. For instance, a sharper edge on the embouchure hole can create a more

Finding the Perfect Flute: A Personal Journey The quest for the perfect flute is a journey every flute player embarks on at some point. In our latest episode of Talking Flutes, we delve into why this journey is so deeply personal and why there's no such thing as a universally perfect flute. The idea of a perfect flute is a myth. Each flute player has unique needs influenced by their embouchure, airstream, hand movements, and personal taste in music. These individual factors mean that what works brilliantly for one player might feel completely wrong for another. For instance, a headjoint that offers little resistance might be ideal for someone with a strong airstream but challenging for someone else. Materials and design play a crucial role in how a flute performs. Silver, gold, platinum, and wood each offer unique sound qualities. But it's not just about the material; the grade of silver, the gold content, and even the design of the headjoint can drastically change how a flute sounds and feels. A solid silver

Is this really that important?!  To some apparently it is! Hello, flute enthusiasts! This week on Talking Flutes, we dive into a topic that has sparked much debate within the flute-playing community: should we call ourselves flautists or flutists? Jean-Paul takes us on an engaging journey through the history, cultural context, and personal preferences that shape this ongoing discussion. The origins of the terms flautist and flutist are as varied as the music we play. The word "flute" itself comes from the Latin "flatus," meaning blowing or breath, which is central to the instrument's identity. The term "flautist" first appeared in English literature in the early 19th century, derived from the Italian "flautista." This Italian influence was significant during a period when many English-speaking musicians looked to Italy for musical inspiration. But why did we borrow an Italian term when "flutist" already existed? Some suggest that "flautist" added a sense of sophistication and prestige, reflective of the Europ

How to Build Confidence and Learn from Failure: Insights from Clare Southworth In the latest episode of Talking Flutes, Clare delves into the intricate process of learning, improving, and maintaining confidence even when things go wrong. Whether you're a musician, an athlete, or anyone striving for excellence, the principles discussed in this episode are universally applicable. Clare opens the episode by highlighting the importance of a positive mindset in the face of challenges. She emphasises that failure should not be seen as a setback but as a learning opportunity. "You're not failing, you're learning," she says, a mantra that resonates throughout the episode. Drawing parallels between musicians and Olympians, Clare discusses how both groups undergo rigorous training, practice, and performance to achieve their goals. She notes that, like athletes, musicians must prepare meticulously, perform with focus, and debrief honestly to improve continually. The key stages of preparation, performance, and debrief ar

In the latest episode of our 'Revisited' podcast series, we had the pleasure of diving deep into the world of flute study books with the esteemed Elizabeth Walker. Alongside our host Clare Southworth, Elizabeth shared invaluable insights into how these books can transform your flute playing by honing your tone, finger technique, and articulation. Why Study Books? Study books are more than just pages of notes and exercises. They are essential tools that provide structured guidance and targeted practice to develop specific aspects of your flute playing. As Elizabeth aptly puts it, "Studies are so important because they help you develop your tone, your finger technique and articulation amongst many other things." By incorporating these books into your routine, you can systematically address and improve various technical challenges. The Categories of Study Books Elizabeth and Clare highlighted the importance of differentiating between various types of study books. Some are daily exercises focusing on technique an

In the world of music, where precision meets passion, the shadow of burnout looms large. It's a condition that doesn't discriminate, affecting professionals from all walks of life, including musicians who turn their passion into their livelihood. I"Talking Flutes Revisited," host Clare Southworth and her guest, Dr. Joe, a psychiatrist, orchestrate a discussion on the all-too-familiar concept of burnout. The podcast opens with a soothing invitation to join the conversation over a cup of tea—a metaphorical break for anyone who's felt the weight of their emotional reserves depleting. Dr. Joe delves into the intricacies of burnout, distinguishing it from its more immediate counterpart, stress. Burnout, he explains, is the long-term consequence of enduring stress without adequate recovery, whether stemming from work, personal relationships, or financial burdens. Listeners are taken on a journey through the symptoms of burnout, categorised into four areas: high activation symptoms like irritability and restlessness

In the world of music, innovation is the key to keeping the art form alive and evolving. This week, we revisit a transformative episode from 2020 featuring the incredibly talented electric flutist and author, Melissa Keeling. Join us on a journey that will forever change the way you perceive flute performance. Melissa Keeling, a New York-based flutist, has been making waves with her unique approach to the flute, incorporating a specialised glissando head joint and various effect pedals to create sounds that are nothing short of revolutionary. In our conversation, Melissa introduces us to the glissando head joint, an invention by Robert Dick that has opened up new realms of possibilities for flutists. Imagine hearing a flute that mimics the expressiveness of an electric guitar, complete with slides and bends. That's exactly what the glissando head joint allows. Melissa describes it as doing for the flute what the whammy bar does for the electric guitar, and the analogy couldn't be more accurate. This head joi

Are you passionate about your flute study and want to know more about what we can learn from sport to develop our skill? Then you won't want to miss the latest episode of 'Talking Flutes Revisited,' where host Clare interviews PGA golf professional Ryan Fenwick. In this episode, Ryan shares his journey from a touring professional PGA golfer to successful coach. He delves into the essence of teaching, emphasising the parallels between coaching in sports and music. With anecdotes from his experiences with legends like David Ledbetter, and his insights on building relationships, communication, and honesty, Ryan's wisdom transcends the golf course and resonates with musicians and educators alike. Listeners will be captivated by the discussion of the holistic approach to coaching, which includes not only the technical aspects of playing but also the importance of diet, sleep, general fitness, and mental state. Both Clare and Ryan explore the significance of flexibility, mentorship, and the willingness to embrace f

In the world of music, innovation is key to keeping the art form alive and engaging. One such innovator is Greg Pattillo, a name synonymous with the unique blend of beatboxing and flute playing. In a special 'Revisited' episode of "Talking Flutes," hosted by Jean Paul Wright, listeners are treated to an insightful conversation with Greg, who has over the years taken the world by storm, starting with his viral Super Mario video and over 150 million YouTube views. The episode takes us back to 2020, a year that, despite its challenges, was filled with remarkable guests and extraordinary music. Greg Pattillo, described by the New York Times as "the best in the world at what he does," shares his journey from being an acting principal flute player in an orchestra to becoming a global sensation with his beatbox flute techniques. Greg's story is one of perseverance and creativity. After moving to California and struggling to find work, he reinvented his flute playing by incorporating beatboxing, a skill he honed by b

Have you ever been mesmerised by the lilting sound of a flute in an orchestra? On this week's Talking Flutes 'Revisited' podcast episode, Clare had the pleasure over a dodgy Zoom line with Gareth Davis, the principal flautist of the London Symphony Orchestra. His candid conversation takes us on a journey through the high notes and low notes of a professional musician's life. Gareth Davis is not just a master of his craft; he's also a storyteller whose early days were filled with music and family singalongs, setting the stage for a remarkable career. His story is a testament to the power of passion and perseverance in the face of adversity. From his initial rejection by major music colleges to becoming a leading figure in the classical music world, Gareth's narrative is as inspiring as it is instructive. In this episode, you'll learn about the nuances of flute playing, the importance of musical phrasing, and the rigours of auditioning for a World Class orchestra like the LSO. Gareth doesn't shy away from discu

In the realm of music, the flute holds a special place, weaving melodies that can be both hauntingly beautiful and strikingly powerful. In the latest episode of Talking Flutes, we revisit a gem from our archives featuring none other than the renowned flute player Paul Edmund-Davies. His insights into the world of flute playing are as refreshing as they are provocative, challenging the norms and urging us to look forward rather than backward for inspiration. The conversation plunges into the depths of musical education and its evolution. Paul, with his rich experience and candid demeanour, discusses the revered French school of flute playing, paying homage to its greats like Taffanel, Gobert, Moyse, and Rampal. Yet, he insists that while the past is to be respected, it is the present that should be seized. He argues that fixation on historical methods may hinder our own creative expression and growth as musicians. Listeners are treated to a sneak peek into Edmund-Davies' own struggles and triumphs with the ins

Are you a musician looking to carve out your unique space in the industry? Do you ever wonder how you can stand out in a sea of talented performers, teachers, and writers? If you're nodding your head, then the latest episode of Talking Flutes is a must-listen for you! In this insightful 'Revisited' conversation, Clare Southworth and Jean-Paul Wright revisit an archived episode 63 from a few years back, where they delve deep into the nuances of brand building for musicians. They discuss what it means to have a brand, how to maintain integrity while promoting yourself, and the importance of understanding your target audience. Jean-Paul kicks off the discussion with an interesting anecdote about Mrs. Hinch, an Instagram influencer who skyrocketed to fame simply by sharing her passion for cleaning. This story beautifully illustrates the power of authenticity and communication in building a brand that resonates with people. Clare, with her extensive experience in performing, teaching, and writing, shares her persp

Are you ready to discover the 'F word' in music? No, it's not what you think. It's something much more exhilarating – it's FUN! In a delightful episode of Talking Flutes revisited, hosts Jean Paul Wright takes us on a musical journey with the exceptional talents of Jose Valentino (flute) and Gualo (guitar). The podcast revisits a gem from March 2019, which deserves a second listen (or perhaps your very first). Recorded in a hotel room in Los Angeles, this episode is brimming with laughter, wisdom, and spontaneous music that transcends the traditional boundaries of flute and guitar. Jose Valentino, a multi-award-winning musician, and Gualo, a master of guitar, have a chemistry that's palpable. Their conversation veers from the serious to the silly, from discussing the nuances of love in music to the sheer joy of playing for the sake of playing. They remind us that music is not just about precision and technique; it's about expression, service, and connecting with the audience. The duo discusses the importance

If the sound of a flute has ever captivated you, our latest podcast episode is one you cannot afford to miss. in October 2020 we had the immense pleasure of welcoming Sir James and Lady Jeanne Galway, a couple who have not only mastered the art of flute playing but have also dedicated their lives to the education and continuation of this enchanting instrument's legacy. Sir James & Lady Jeanne are more than just accomplished musicians; they are trailblazers in the flute community. In this insightful conversation, they delve into the origins of their passion, the importance of always maintaining excellence, and the joy of sharing their knowledge through the Galway Flute Academy.  Sir James, often referred to as 'The Man With the Golden Flute,' reveals the discipline behind his seemingly effortless performances. From his early days to his rise as an international world leading soloist, he emphasises the importance of a solid technical foundation, sharing anecdotes of his rigorous training and practice routin

In this week’s enlightening episode of Talking Flutes Extra, host Jean Paul welcomes back Dr. Beth Wright, forensic psychologist and his daughter, to tackle a question that hits home for many musicians – dealing with impostor syndrome and self-doubt. With her expert insight, Dr. Beth Wright demystifies the concept of impostor syndrome, describing it as the nagging feeling of not belonging or undeserved success, despite evidence to the contrary. Dr. Beth guides us through the psychological roots of impostor syndrome, explaining how it's intertwined with our self-worth and past experiences. She reassures us that it can strike anyone, regardless of their confidence level, and often feeds on our deepest insecurities. But there's hope, as she shares practical strategies for challenging and reframing negative thoughts, highlighting the importance of seeking evidence against our self-doubts and recognising that our thoughts are not always facts. The conversation takes a deep dive into the power of thought challengin

Stress vs Anxiety in our musical performance! As musicians, the stage is not only a platform for showcasing our art but also a battleground for our inner demons of stress and anxiety. In the latest episode of our podcast, we delve deep into this subject with forensic psychologist Dr. Beth Wright, who offers a compelling analysis of the psychological challenges that musicians face. Dr. Wright distinguishes between stress and anxiety, two terms that are often mistakenly used interchangeably. Stress, she explains, is an acute, fight-or-flight response to a triggering situation, while anxiety is a more prolonged state of overthinking and excessive worrying. Understanding the difference is crucial for musicians who are constantly under the pressure of performance and perfection. The conversation then shifts to the concept of stressors, which, according to Dr. Wright, are not self-induced but rather natural responses to situations that signal danger to our primitive instincts. However, when stress morphs into anxie

The Complex Dance of Judgment and Opinion in Musical Performance In this captivating episode of Talking Flutes Extra, host Jean Paul Wright is once again joined by his daughter, forensic psychologist Dr. Beth Wright to delve into the intricate relationship between judgment and the mental and performance outcomes for musicians. The discussion kicks off with two thought-provoking listener questions about the effects of internal and external judgment and strategies to alleviate the burdens they impose. Dr. Beth Wright takes us on a journey from our primal roots to the modern-day, explaining how our evolutionary fight or flight response has shaped our perception of judgment and its significance in our lives. She eloquently differentiates between judgment and opinion, illuminating how the latter can be a source of growth despite its potential discomfort. Throughout the conversation, the pair tackle the elusive concept of perfection, the role of self-worth in musicianship, and the importance of embracing imperfecti

Navigating Procrastination with Dr. Beth Wright In this enlightening episode of Talking Flutes, host Jean Paul Wright is joined by Dr. Beth Wright, a flute player and forensic psychologist, to unravel the complexities of procrastination, especially as it relates to musicians. As the first in a short series focused on musician mental health and awareness, this discussion delves into the voluntary inaction that plagues many of us, exploring its triggers and consequences, and offering strategies to overcome it. Dr. Beth Wright, who happens to be Jean Paul's daughter, brings her personal and professional insights into why we delay essential tasks and how this behaviour impacts our performances, practice sessions, and ultimately, our self-worth. The conversation touches on perfectionism, intrinsic motivation, and the weight of expectations, providing listeners with a deep understanding of the psychological underpinnings of procrastination. Listeners will discover practical tips for becoming self-aware, tackling t

The Flute Pad Revolution: A Symphony of Sustainability Are you a flute enthusiast always on the lookout for the next big thing in instrument care and maintenance? Well, prepare to be blown away by a recent innovation that's been the talk of the flute world, albeit in hushed tones until now. Welcome to the world of Poriflola, a groundbreaking padding system that's set to transform flutes globally. In this week's episode of Talking Flutes, we delve deep into this hush-hush topic that's been quietly making waves among the flute community.   For too long, flutists have faced the perennial problem of sticky pads and the annual ritual of servicing. But the Poriflola padding system promises to put an end to these woes. Crafted from a unique composite material made from recycled fruit skins and olive oil, these pads are not just waterproof, but they also offer the perfect combination of resilience and flexibility.   Imagine playing your flute with pads that guarantee a perfect hermetic seal every time. That's what Po