In the world of music, innovation is the key to keeping the art form alive and evolving. This week, we revisit a transformative episode from 2020 featuring the incredibly talented electric flutist and author, Melissa Keeling. Join us on a journey that will forever change the way you perceive flute performance.

Melissa Keeling, a New York-based flutist, has been making waves with her unique approach to the flute, incorporating a specialised glissando head joint and various effect pedals to create sounds that are nothing short of revolutionary. In our conversation, Melissa introduces us to the glissando head joint, an invention by Robert Dick that has opened up new realms of possibilities for flutists.

Imagine hearing a flute that mimics the expressiveness of an electric guitar, complete with slides and bends. That's exactly what the glissando head joint allows. Melissa describes it as doing for the flute what the whammy bar does for the electric guitar, and the analogy couldn't be more accurate. This head joint consists of two tubes that slide in and out of each other, enabling the flutist to lower the pitch and create a variety of expressive sounds.

But Melissa's innovation doesn't stop there. She pairs the glissando head joint with looping and effect pedals, adding layers of complexity and depth to her performances. These tools allow her to create a rich tapestry of sound, transforming the flute from a monophonic instrument into a multi-dimensional powerhouse. In the episode, we get to hear some of Melissa's chosen works performed with this setup, showcasing her incredible versatility and creativity.

One of the highlights of our conversation is Melissa's discussion about her new book, "The Glissando Flute Handbook for Composers and Performers." This comprehensive guide is a must-have for any flutist looking to explore the capabilities of the glissando head joint. It covers everything from basic techniques to advanced applications, making it an invaluable resource for both beginners and seasoned professionals.

Melissa's journey with the glissando head joint began in a moment of serendipity. Inspired by a performance from Robert Dick, she knew she had found her musical voice. This head joint has not only expanded her musical expression but also inspired her to create original compositions that push the boundaries of what the flute can do.

In this episode, we also delve into the impact of social media and YouTube in spreading the word about such innovations. Melissa acknowledges that these platforms have been instrumental in allowing musicians to share their work with a global audience, thus accelerating the adoption of new tools and techniques.

So, whether you're a flutist, a music educator, or simply a lover of innovative music, this episode is a treasure trove of inspiration and knowledge. Tune in to hear Melissa Keeling's mesmerising performances and insightful discussions, and prepare to see the flute in a whole new light.

Listen to this full episode now and let the magic of the glissando head joint and effect pedals inspire you to explore new horizons in your musical journey.

Talking Flutes, Talking Flutes Extra, Bitesize & Revisited are podcast productions by the TJ flute company. For more information visit https://tjflutes.com

Are you passionate about your flute study and want to know more about what we can learn from sport to develop our skill? Then you won't want to miss the latest episode of 'Talking Flutes Revisited,' where host Clare interviews PGA golf professional Ryan Fenwick.

In this episode, Ryan shares his journey from a touring professional PGA golfer to successful coach. He delves into the essence of teaching, emphasising the parallels between coaching in sports and music. With anecdotes from his experiences with legends like David Ledbetter, and his insights on building relationships, communication, and honesty, Ryan's wisdom transcends the golf course and resonates with musicians and educators alike.

Listeners will be captivated by the discussion of the holistic approach to coaching, which includes not only the technical aspects of playing but also the importance of diet, sleep, general fitness, and mental state. Both Clare and Ryan explore the significance of flexibility, mentorship, and the willingness to embrace failure as part of the learning process.

As a former England coach and owner of the Ryan Fenwick Golf Academy, Ryan's teaching style is deeply influenced by his time spent with world-class coaches and his own competitive experiences. He believes in creating an environment that fosters good habits and routines, crucial for both golfers and musicians.

Clare, with her background in music, provides a fascinating perspective on the differences and similarities in teaching and coaching methodologies in both fields. The conversation touches on why professional musicians might benefit from continuous coaching, just as top athletes do, and the potential for cross-disciplinary learning.

This episode is not just for golf enthusiasts or musicians; it's for anyone interested in the art of teaching and the journey of becoming a good student. Ryan's story of resilience, transitioning from player to coach, and his approach to life coaching, is sure to inspire.

So, whether you're a seasoned pro, a dedicated amateur, or simply curious about the world of coaching, 'Talking Flutes Revisited' offers invaluable lessons that apply to all walks of life. Tune in to this episode to discover how to enhance your learning experience, cope with challenges, and ultimately, how to succeed in mastering your craft.

Don't forget to visit the links mentioned in the podcast to learn more about Ryan Fenwick, his academy, and the influential figures in the world of golf. Ready to be inspired? Listen to the episode now and take the first step towards refining your skills and enriching your learning journey.

'Talking Flutes', 'Talking Flutes Extra', 'Bitesize' and 'Revisited' are podcast productions by the TJ flute company. For more information visit https://tjflutes.com

In the world of music, innovation is key to keeping the art form alive and engaging. One such innovator is Greg Pattillo, a name synonymous with the unique blend of beatboxing and flute playing.

In a special 'Revisited' episode of "Talking Flutes," hosted by Jean Paul Wright, listeners are treated to an insightful conversation with Greg, who has over the years taken the world by storm, starting with his viral Super Mario video and over 150 million YouTube views.

The episode takes us back to 2020, a year that, despite its challenges, was filled with remarkable guests and extraordinary music. Greg Pattillo, described by the New York Times as "the best in the world at what he does," shares his journey from being an acting principal flute player in an orchestra to becoming a global sensation with his beatbox flute techniques.

Greg's story is one of perseverance and creativity. After moving to California and struggling to find work, he reinvented his flute playing by incorporating beatboxing, a skill he honed by being around other beatboxers and practicing relentlessly. This innovative approach not only provided him with a unique sound but also a platform to inspire others.

One of the highlights of the episode is Greg's discussion about his tutor book, "Beatbox Flute, Volume 1." This book is a comprehensive guide for flute players of all levels, introducing them to the art and sounds of beatboxing. It includes detailed instructions on how to produce five basic sounds, how to incorporate them into flute playing, and even how to improvise with these sounds. The book is a testament to Greg's dedication to making beatboxing accessible to everyone, from beginners to seasoned professionals.

The conversation also delves into the technical aspects of beatboxing on the flute. Greg explains how he uses different parts of his mouth to create various sounds and how these techniques have evolved over the years. He emphasises the importance of practice and experimentation, encouraging listeners to try beatboxing while walking or even at parties.

Jean Paul Wright and Greg Pattillo's camaraderie is evident throughout the episode, making it not only informative but also entertaining. Their shared history and mutual respect add depth to the conversation, providing listeners with a behind-the-scenes look at the world of flute beatboxing.

For those who missed the original episode or are new to the concept of flute beatboxing, this revisited episode is a must-listen. It offers a fascinating glimpse into the mind of an innovator who is pushing the boundaries of what is possible with a flute. So, sit back, relax, and let Greg Pattillo take you on a journey into the exciting world of beatboxing on the flute.

'Talking Flutes', 'Talking Flutes Extra', 'Bitesize' and 'Revisited' are podcast productions by the TJ flute company. For more information visit https://tjflutes.com