Is a Side Embouchure Okay? FluteTips 133

[@kierangilbert6951]

I have a side embouchure and I think the reason is because my top lip dips down very far in the centre and I have tried many times to move it but cannot move it from that side. Thank you for this video it really helped me to understand that what I do isn’t wrong and is what is good for me :)

[@DoctorFlute]

Oh yes I think that sounds like a tear drop embouchure. You absolutely have to use a side embouchure with that lip shape. The only question that you should ask yourself is " Can I get a good tone?" If so your embouchure is fine.

[@chas5131]

Thank you. I needed that.

[@DoctorFlute]

Glad it was helpful! Do you have a side embouchure?

[@chas5131]

@@DoctorFlute Started the switch today. Teardrop is not pronounced, but the sounds I am getting are already better than what I could make with a centered aperature. Also, I think the centered aperature prompts long established saxophone blowing habits.

[@zxKAOS1]

This is good to know! Contrast that to say, learning trumpet... side blowing there is to be REALLY avoided!

[@DoctorFlute]

Definitely! That trumpet embouchure is quite different.

[@dcallan812]

I knew a guy how played in the most unusual way, he had a hairlip that was fixed when he was a child and he was a great player. 👍👍

[@DoctorFlute]

Yes, that would cause a change in embouchure. Pretty cool

[@helledegagne2706]

I seem to get a better sound on the right side but it is very tiring to hold my flute the right side. Almost impossible! Your arms also ends up being in an awkward position. So what do you do?

[@DoctorFlute]

Do you mean the lip plate is moved to the right? Is it necessary? Have you looked in the mirror to see is that where your embouchure whole is? If so, you shouldn’t have to hold it awkwardly. Are you pushing the right arm out too much?

[@robertelam6436]

I consistently produce a much more pleasing sound standing straight up and Flute level with my head and face level lightly touchings my bottom lip.

[@DoctorFlute]

Fantastic!

[@robertelam6436]

Thanks

[@RoxiTube1]

I find it hard to hold flute lifted in a horizontal position.... can you say something about that 🤔😁

[@DoctorFlute]

There have been many flutists over the years that don't hold the flute very straight. It's perfectly okay. The main thing is to make sure the embouchure hole is straight on your lip. Also if you have a more difficult issue there are flutes that play well but they are straight down like a recorder.

[@TapiokaOishii]

Denis Bouriakov's embouchure is really different! And also his right thumb position is very unusual, barely touching the flute! But he definitely masters the instrument. Very curious!!

[@DoctorFlute]

I've noticed that as well. It works for him!

[@ameliamctavish]

My embouchure has moved very slightly (a few millimetres) to the right since I had a break from playing the flute. I understand that a side embouchure is okay, but it really bothers me because my embouchure used to be right in the centre. Do you have any tips for correcting this?

[@DoctorFlute]

The only way to correct this is .....correct it. If you used to play fine with a center embouchure then you can again. It will take looking in a mirror when practicing to watch what you are doing and making sure that it is staying put. Do a lot of tone exercises with the mirror and nothing else and see if you can put it back into the middle. On the other hand, do you think you sound just as good as you used to? If so is there really a problem?

[@ameliamctavish]

@@DoctorFlute Thank you so much for your suggestions. My tone isn't as good as it used to be in the top register so perhaps this will help!