Posture (for Flute)
- The bottom of the flute will rest on your right thumb. Your right index, middle, and ring fingers will rest on the three lowest keys of the body. Your right pink will rest on the keys of the foot joint.
- The upper half of the flute (the end closer to the head joint) will be balanced against your left index finger. There are two keys in the back. Your thumb will rest on them, but will not be used to support the flute.
- Looking at the keys starting nearest the head joint, the first “key” is actually not a key at all. Skip this one. Your index finger will rest on the next key. On most flutes this key may look slightly flatter and textured differently than the others.
- You will skip the next key, then place your middle and ring fingers on the final two keys. Just after your ring finger should be a bar cutting the flute’s body in two halves. On this key is where your left pinky will rest.
- Your hands should sit in a relaxed “C” shape, similar to how they would look if you were to hold out your arm and let your hand hang limp.
- Position the lip plate so that it rests on the spot where your chin meets your lips. You should be able to feel the embouchure hole against the edge of your bottom lip.
- If you have fuller lips, you may need to place the flute slightly higher.
- If you have thin lips, the flute may need to be slightly lower.
- The majority of support for the flute comes from your right hand thumb, your left hand index finger, and your chin. If you cannot balance the flute without pressing down any keys, readjust the position between these three points.
- Hold the flute parallel to the floor, allowing your arms to hang loosely from your shoulders. Keep your shoulders relaxed.
- Whether standing or sitting, keep your back upright so your spine straightens naturally up through your neck. If sitting down, sit at the end of your chair with your feet flat on the floor.