Traces the history of the flute, provides advice on the development of flute playing techniques, and discusses the professional careers for flute players
Good overview of the history of the flute with practical advice on flute playing basics. The technology referenced in this edition is very dated and mostly out of use.
This is an informative book about the flute, which includes chapters about the long and complicated history of the instrument, and also includes many chapters devoted to how to become a better flute player. It is filled with advice about caring for the instrument, good tone production, adjusting the pitch, articulation, how to practice, what to practice, playing Bach and the music of other Baroque composers, advice on some major solos, advice on playing in an orchestra, and much more. Not only is James Galway one of the greatest flautists of all time, he is also a witty and articulate writer. This is a book that entertains while it informs. It is for everyone who loves playing the flute, from beginners to advanced professional musicians. I liked this book so much that I have read it several times! Highly recommended.
Galway is a talented flautist with a love of his instrument and a regard for good music (and he's Irish to boot). The book is full of helpful instruction and good advice, and is written in a clear and interesting style that makes it an enjoyable read throughout. Every now and again he had some weird philosophy, but it was easy enough to ignore.