Flute Practice with Directed Attention to Playfulness and Experimentation

In this paper, I intend to investigate the complex realm of music practice, emphasizing the challenges and opportunities involved in cultivating effective practice habits. The work is divided into two parts. The first part introduces the Dalcroze method, the Feldenkrais method, and music improvisation practices that, when applied to personal flute practice, can enhance the general experience by fostering a playful and compassionate mindset, creativity, musical skills, self-regulation, and overall well-being in the practice room. The affordances of playfulness applied to personal practice habits are contrasted with the common flute instruction and the challenges that flute students face in their training. The second part provides exercises that exemplify the application of the mentioned methods and practices to the flute's personal practice, addressing technical issues and promoting creativity and musicianship. Key topics covered in this research are: