5. How to do articulation on the flute

Articulation gives a clearer note. And it also defines the start of the note. To do articulation ( also known as tonguing ), say the syllable "TU", but without making any sound.


The diagram below shows the shape of the lip opening when playing low or high notes. Referring to the above, when playing low notes, the lip opening is bigger and when playing low notes, it is smaller.

In the diagram below, when you play higher notes, you need to pout your lips slightly and this brings the lower lip forward and covers more of the embouchure hole.

In the picture below, this is what it looks like when playing low notes. To play a low note with articulation, say the syllable "TU" to start the note, then continue blowing. Note that the embouchure hole is about 1/2 covered by the lower lip.

In the picture below, this is what playing a high note looks like. To play a higher note with articulation, pout the lips (pushing it out slightly), then make the syllable "TU" to start the note and then continue blowing. This will automatically cover more than 3/4 of the embouchure hole.

Watch the video here