Flute Lesson 5: Playing Position

What is the correct general posture for playing an instrument in a chair?

• Lean back against the chair with feet flat on the floor.

• Sit on the front half of the chair with a straight back and feet flat on the floor.

• Sit on the front half of the chair with a straight back and feet crossed.

• Slouch forward with feet flat on the floor.

For flute players, how should your body and feet be oriented in the chair?

• Turn your body and feet to the right, so the right corner of the chair is between your legs.

• Turn your body and feet to the left, so the left corner of the chair is between your legs.

• Keep your body straight forward, but turn your feet to the left.

• Turn your body to the left, but keep your feet straight forward.

When bringing the flute to play, what is the correct action?

• Bring your head down to meet the flute.

• Bring the flute up to your mouth.

• Hold the flute straight out in front of you and lean forward.

• Place the flute on your lap and lean over it.

If holding the flute straight up feels uncomfortable, what adjustment should be made?

• Tilt your head to the left and let the flute go that direction.

• Tilt your head to the right and let the flute go that direction.

• Bring your head to the flute to make it comfortable.

• Adjust your chair height instead of your head or flute.

How should your elbows and shoulders be positioned when playing the flute?

• Elbows should be way up, and shoulders should be tense.

• Elbows should be scrunched into your stomach, and shoulders should be relaxed.

• Elbows should come up a little bit, and shoulders should stay relaxed.

• Elbows should be completely straight, and shoulders should be raised.