1. Music stand - make sure this is working properly! A broken music stand (or one that is tilted or off balance) will only be a distraction for you as you practice.
2. Folder for all your books/music - this is absolutely essential to keep all your music in one place so that it's easily accessible during a lesson or rehearsal.
3. Tuning rod - this should come with your flute, and serves to check if your head joint is in tune.
4. Pad saver and cleaning cloth - these items facilitate the cleaning of your flute, which you should be doing after every practice session and rehearsal.
5. Cleaning paper - use this paper to clean under any pads where condensation may accumulate while you're playing.
6. Metronome - use this tool as much as possible during your practice. Let's say you are practicing measures 1-16. I like to first set the metronome at a comfortable practice tempo, finger through the passage with the metronome on, and THEN play through it (also with the metronome.) It's a good idea to play through the same passage several times before increasing the tempo. Try increasing the tempo by 5 clicks at a time (but you should adjust this according to your level and the difficulty of the music you are studying.)
7. Tuner - practice changing dynamics with the tuner! Also, it's a good idea to practice any piece of music with the tuner on, because the tuner will help you identify certain notes that are flat or sharp (that you may not otherwise notice.)
8. Pencil with eraser - this is a must-have tool. I am constantly making notes in my music. What I generally like to write in are:
-tempo changes (especially ritardandos or accelerandos)
-dynamic changes (for dynamics already written in the music, you may circle the dynamic marking to draw your attention to it as you're practicing)
-mood (for example, measures 1-16 should be lively, measures 17-32 are more somber)
-cues for where my pianist (or other musicians you are playing with) are coming in
-anything else you feel will help you to play the piece better
9. Flute stand - this is different from a music stand, as its purpose is to rest your flute when you are not playing (or may be switching to piccolo). Even if you don't have one, do NOT rest your flute on your music stand if you have to get up during rehearsal. Put it ON YOUR CHAIR, with the KEYS FACING UP.
All these items can be purchased at All-County Music in Tamarac or Pembroke Pines.
Questions? Comments?
Contact me!