Fundamentals of Flute Playing

This is a helpful publication for the flutist. The following subjects are covered: 1. Selection of the instrument, 2. Proper care of the instrument, 3. Assembly, 4. Playing position, 5. Proper breathing, 6. Forming the embouchure, 7. Tone control, 8. Tonguing, 9. Vibrato, 10. Daily practice schedule, 11. Recommended study material. Mark Thomas’s diverse talents and high personal worldwide visibility have earned him the moniker, Mr. Flute. Celebrated music critic for The Washington Post, Paul Hume commented, “Does anyone else get as much done for the flute? I doubt it.” The Belfast Telegraph referred to his playing “as a touch of the magic flute, ”while England’s Crescendo Magazine called Mr. Thomas “one of the world’s greatest flautists.” Such accolades are common in both the United States and abroad. During his prestigious career, he has traveled thousands of miles, with appearances in 49 states and 20 foreign countries. He has performed before Royalty and Heads of State of Europe and Asia, and has appeared at The White House before four Presidents of the United States. A master teacher, Thomas has served on the artist faculties of George Washington University and The American University(Washington, DC), The University of Notre Dame and The University of Indiana at South Bend (Indiana), and the University of North Carolina at Charlotte, which awarded him the College of Arts and Sciences’ Faculty Excellence in Teaching Award (2001). Many of his former students are currently members of major symphony orchestras and university faculties in the United States and Canada. In addition, Thomas is an authority on flute design who has served as a consultant to many of the world’s leading flute manufacturers. His Mark Thomas Flute Method, a progressive series of three books, is used by teachers throughout the world. His teaching abilities are not limited to collegiate or professional players, however: he is equally adroit at working with secondary and middle school students. Thomas especially enjoys working with the growing number of adult amateur flutists who play for pleasure and self expression. He continues to teach in his private studio in Charlotte, NC.