Frequently Asked Questions

1. Why the name "Fluter"? I'd usually say I'm a flutist. Flautist is another possibility, but fluter is just a fun way to describe someone who plays the flute. 😆
2. Tell me more about the individual 1:1 lessons and mini video check-ins. We'll compare schedules, and arrange times for two, 30 minute private zoom lessons during the six week challenge. The mini check-ins will be opportunities for you to send a short video, and I'll send a video response.
3. About the weekly Zoom classes: what if I can't attend all of them live? We hope you can make it 'live', but the recordings will be available. During class, we'll go over the weekly theme and assignments. There will be time for questions, and playing during class... but no pressure!
4. Do I need any experience reading music? No! We start with the basics of flute playing, and the basics of reading music. If you have experience reading music, you can skip the music theory component.
5. Can you recommend a flute? What about buying online?

Some recommended beginner brands: Yamaha, Pearl, Jupiter, Di Zhao, Trevor James. There are others. It’s best to work with a reputable seller for assistance. Contact me if you want some store recommendations.

If you are ready to purchase a flute, expect to spend about $700-$1200 for a good beginner flute. If you find a used instrument for sale, please have a flutist or a repair technician test it before buying. If you already have an old flute it would be good to get it checked for any needed repairs.

Please note: Flutes are available in a wide price range. Many online sites have instruments starting less than $100. 😬 Inexpensive instruments (typically less than $300) can be very frustrating for the beginner flutist. First of all, they may have mechanical problems out of the box. They will often be difficult to play with a clear sound. Most troubling… they usually can not be repaired, or the repairs may cost more than the flute itself!

I do understand not wanting to invest a lot as a beginner trying a new instrument! If you don't have a good flute, and you aren't ready to buy, I recommend starting with a rental flute from a local instrument store that has a repair technitian on staff. They should have reputable brands, and can work with you when any repairs are needed. If you rent a flute, the funds may also apply toward a rent-to-own program (check with local stores).

if you have purchased one of the inexpensive flutes:  You can use it until it breaks, but know that any problems you are having may be from the instrument itself. It's best to have a flute player or instrument technician take a look at it to know what you are working with. A good flute will not fix all playing problems, but it shouldn’t hold you back :-)
6. Other than a flute, what do I need? cleaning/tuning rod, cleaning cloth, pencil, metronome and tuner (these can be free apps), music stand recommended
7. I'm very busy. How much time do I need to complete the Six-Week Challenge? This is a CHALLENGE, because learning to play a new instrument -like learning a new language- takes consistent practice. However, in the early weeks you can get a lot done in 10-20 minutes a day! If you miss a few days, fine... but try not to miss more. Our brain learns much better if we break the content up over a week, instead of "cramming" right before class! By the end of the challenge, 30 minutes of practice a day would be good. These are just to give you an idea. We'll talk more about practice during the class.
8. Can I access the info on my computer/phone/ipad? Yes! However, for the zoom classes, a computer would be best. We'll talk about zoom settings before the first class. *a chrome book may not have the best sound if you want to play during class.
9. Is this Six-Week Challenge for beginners only? Yes. This founding members class is for beginners, as this is the first content being released in the app. I am planning a "return to the flute" challenge in the future, along with more beginner challenges. 
10. Tell me more about the Six-Week Challenge, Youth Group. The youth group will have access to the same app  content as the adult group, but I will be teaching separate weekly Zoom classes for the youth members, and they will have their own channel for communication in the fluter community.
11. What materials will be used to learn the flute? After 40 years of flute teaching (I'll do the math for you... I'm 56 😆), I am writing my own method books, and I'm very excited about it! We will be using my "Fluter Method", which includes content and techniques that I've found to work best with my students. Each level in the Fluter Method will have 50 lessons. There will be PDFs and videos of each lesson available in the app.
12. What is your teaching style?

I strive to meet each student where they are, understanding that we all have different experiences, and different strengths. I encourage each student to examine their playing, and address what they need individually, during class, during their practice, and during their private lessons. I want to encourage expression, reduce tension, and have fun playing the flute! This is why we make music! It's communication, and it can change HOW we FEEL. That's powerful. Students are encouraged to support each other, and to avoid comparison. I want you to thrive, define your goals (whether they be playing for fun, or working toward a high level of skill), and to keep working for progress!

I focus on solid fundamentals, and musicality/expressive playing.
13. Do I have to finish the Challenge in Six Weeks? If you get behind (because Life Happens - I know) you will have lifetime access to the content, and can complete the course at your own pace. I would encourage you to continue to attend the group zoom classes, even if you get behind with the lessons.
14. Can I just get the app? The app will be available for all in late January, at $27 a month for a premium membership, and $12 a month for a basic membership. The members of this first Six-Week Challenge will get lifetime access to the app, with all future content!
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