As a flute player and educator, I know about a lot of method books. But today, I want to share my Flute 101 review with you. That way, you can decide if it’s the right book to use in your flute studies.
The book isn’t for everyone, but it does have some unique features. Its structure is also a bit different from other method books. So keep on reading to learn more from an update on the first time I wrote about Flute 101.
But before we get into that, this post contains affiliate links. Click here to read my full disclosure policy.
Structure
One of the most important things to consider in a Flute 101 review is the structure of the book. It follows a similar structure to other beginner flute books in that it starts from the very beginning of playing the flute.
Unlike other books, Flute 101 has a whole section on playing with just the headjoint. As a beginner, that’s an excellent way to start learning how to produce a good tone without having to balance the flute.
After you go through some headjoint-only exercises, you get to start working with the entire flute. You’ll start learning a note or two at a time, so you can take things as slowly as you need to so that you can learn the concepts thoroughly.
Within each lesson, there are some individual exercises for the student. But there are also pages where a student and teacher can play together. This is great for in-person lessons.
For online lessons, the teacher and student can alternate turning off their microphones so that the other person can hear the duet as normal. I did this with one of my former students, and it was good for both of us.
Unique Features
- Headjoint-only exercises
- Plenty of written material for students and teachers
- Solos and duets
- Actual songs
- Spiral binding for easier opening
- Teacher’s guide
Pros
- Easy to find
- Great for beginners and teachers
- Part of a progressive series
- Easy to read
- Affordable
Cons
- Moves faster than some books
- Requires some discipline from the student
- No equivalent for other instruments/not for a band setting
Who Flute 101 Is For
Flute 101 is great for new flute players who have a bit of discipline and can learn at least the basics on their own. It’s also useful for anyone who used to play the flute but took a break and need something to get started again.
If you’re a teacher, you’ll find that Flute 101 is also great for your situation. You can use it with any of your beginner students. That way, you don’t have to stick to old method books or books for band usage.
Who Flute 101 Is Not For
Flute 101 isn’t for intermediate or advanced players who don’t intend to teach in some capacity. If you want to focus on performing or just keep music as a hobby but have already learned the book’s materials, you’ll find it a little unnecessary.
The book also isn’t for anyone looking to learn the flute quickly. It takes time to learn how to play an instrument (especially to play that instrument well). So be patient, and then you can get a copy of Flute 101.
Flute 101 Review: Is It Right for You?
In this Flute 101 review, I looked at the structure and unique features of the book. While I reviewed it a while back, I wanted to go over it again after having some experience using it with a student.
It’s an excellent addition to any flute teacher’s library, and it’s also great for some beginners. Just make sure you take it slowly to help learn how to play music well.
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