The Simple Flute: From A to Z

by Michel Debost

For professional and amateur flautists as well as students of the flute, this book offers a practical introduction to all aspects of playing the flute. Using an accessible A-Z format, the author offers a logical and imaginative work on flute performance that places technique at the service of music on every page. In these concise essays, readers will find simple, sensible answers to all of the problems flautists regularly encounter. Debost covers the expected topics - such as breathing, articulation, and tone - and offers personal insights into such issues as jawboning, finger phrasing, and the little devils.

Genres: Music, Nonfiction

282 pages, ebook

First published January 24, 2001

Reviews

[Dan Graser · Rating 4 out of 5]

Having seen this book recommended by Emmanuel Pahud among others I decided to give it a read and see if there was much that I could apply to my discipline as a saxophonist. The material is presented in A to Z format and deals with both highly flute-specific issues and general artistic notions about music and preparation. I wish there were a bit more of a latter to make this a bit more applicable to my work, however I still gained much from Debost's writing.

Michel Debost was one of the premiere flutists of his generation having won several competitions, performed in the Orchestras of Paris for decades, and taught at the Paris Conservatoire (succeeding Rampal) and also at the Oberlin Conservatory in the US.

Now, fair warning, this is written in a more old-fashioned, slightly dogmatic, and little-room-for-discussion format. You get used to this after a few headings and will likely be able to glean much, especially if you're a flutist, from his no-nonsense practical suggestions and also his highly philosophical approach. You likely will disagree with how some of these issues are framed (his attitude about "accompanists" and also the efficacy of warm-ups to name a couple) and you will also likely repeatedly want to instantly pick up your instrument and give some of these a try.

Even if you're not of this "school" of playing I think you will find enough here to make the read worthwhile, this is one that I will keep in the office for return readings as some of these issues come up in my own teaching, practicing, and performing.

[Kaleb Chesnic · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fantastic!

This book is Debost's (successful) attempt at making the flute less complicated than we perceive it. Every serious flutist should read this book and take what works for them from it!!

[Ruth Ann · Rating 5 out of 5]

You will never be done with this book. There are so many facts, suggestions, ideas, critical performance notes that you will go back and re-read. It's an excellent book and a must-read for any serious flutist.

[Deb · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very practical.

[Tom · Rating 5 out of 5]

Finished my first read, there is so much information in here I will be going back to it often.