Embouchure

Flute Embouchure

Embouchure is the correct positioning of the lips on the flute's headjoint to produce sound. For proper embouchure development, it's essential to understand how sound is produced on the flute.

The flute's sound is created when the air we blow across the embouchure hole strikes the riser (the inner edge of the hole). This causes the air and the metal to vibrate, generating sound waves. The quality of the sound depends directly on the air's speed, volume, angle, and direction. With consistent study and dedication, we gradually gain control over the embouchure to produce a clear and beautiful tone.

Mouth Position

To form the embouchure:

• Rest the lower lip gently on the lip plate, covering about 1/4 of the embouchure hole.

• The upper lip should be slightly forward, directing the airstream so that most of it hits the riser wall inside the hole.

• The lips should be centered over the hole and maintain a natural, relaxed shape, without pulling the corners or creating excess tension.

In the figures, the dotted line shows the area of the lower lip covering 1/4 of the hole.

Individual Variation and Observation

Each person has a unique facial anatomy and will naturally develop a slightly different embouchure. However, by observing the embouchures of great flute masters, we can learn essential concepts and refine our own form.

Embouchure Adjustments for Different Registers

To produce low and high notes, small adjustments to the embouchure are necessary:

• Low notes:

  • Require more air volume, less speed, and a relaxed embouchure.

  • The airstream should be directed slightly downward.
    
    

• High notes:

  • Require less air volume, higher speed, and a more focused airstream, directed more forward.

  • The lower lip covers more of the embouchure hole, and the embouchure becomes firmer, but still without tension or pressure.

Throat and Tongue Position

• Keep the throat open at all times to allow free airflow.

• The tongue should rest gently on or just behind the lower teeth.

• These internal positions are essential for tone control and articulation.

Refer to the sectional diagram for a visual guide to correct internal and external embouchure formation.