Lizzo plays James Madison's flute at Library of Congress

Lizzo played various collectible flutes in the Reading Room and flute vault at the Library of Congress's Great Hall on Sept. 26, including former president James Madison's crystal flute. She then dazzled a massive audience at Capitol One Arena that evening, revealing she had Madison's flute on stage with her.
(Correction: This video states Lizzo played flutes at the Library on Sept. 27. It was Sept. 26.) Read more: wapo.st/3SvyRnk. Subscribe to The Washington Post on KZbin: wapo.st/2QOdcqK
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[@cogent211814]

It is refreshing to see so many positive comments here. Lizzo is an amazing person and the bringer of music and joy. Although I know little of her pop music, I appreciate what she has done here. Good job Library Of Congress for inviting Lizzo to bring attention to the arts.

[@Rackatiakka]

Why would anyone be negative

[@wishusknight3009]

@@Rackatiakka people who have nothing better to do. and who need to have something to complain about at all times. I thought this was amazing, esp the last part the sound was beautiful

[@melissasmith6762]

@@Rackatiakka Because they have a brain.

[@Chroniknight]

I don't usually like her music (personal taste), but I respect, it and her, more knowing this about her.

[@wishusknight3009]

@@Chroniknight Yeah that is fair enough. I really enjoyed learning about this bit of history and i am glad they let someone with talent try it.

[@mrs.brunke443]

I am a flutist and it's been wonderful to hear this extremely talented woman play! I am thrilled that so many have been allowed to share this historic event with her. As a musician, I know how honored she felt to be the first one to play a rare and historic instrument. Thanks to Lizzo and the Library of Congress!

[@BrazFencil]

Isn’t it “flautist?”

[@mrs.brunke443]

@@BrazFencil It's actually OK to write either. This is what our Friend the Internet says about it - "flutist has always been the preferred spelling in American English. In British English, however, flautist is now the preferred spelling-and has been since about the year 1880." So I guess if you are British or more familiar with British English than "flautist" it is. You know how the song goes - You say flautist, I say flutist, Let's call the whole thing off! But, I hope we can agree that, just like a rose, by any name at all, this woman can certainly play sweet music on the instrument.

[@BrazFencil]

@@mrs.brunke443 oooh ok I see

[@rodneylewis6104]

@mrs brunke Thank you for clarifying that. There’s always somebody ready to criticize another person‘s grammar. It would’ve taken someone 10 seconds to Google and find the answer you gave.

[@gl15col]

She has studied the flute since she was a child, played with the New York Philharmonic, and made that flute sound like a magic flute played by Pan in Olympus. I would bet it never sounded this good before in the last 200 years.

[@carlospereyra9479]

The truly amazing thing is that it had, apparently, NEVER been played!! It was gifted to Madison and had been in storage ever since. It was one of the items that Dolly Madison rescued from the White House before the British burned it in 1814.

[@duifje6125]

Shame she didnt twerk without pants this time, she's being conservative and i dont like it.

[@calburge4338]

Has she played it on any of her music????

[@eatcereal1294]

@@calburge4338 I think in one but she’s still very talented

[@calburge4338]

@@eatcereal1294 I look at talent as wat it is …. Talent ! No “ artists “ today has any talent. They’re all head and body shots. They need machines to help them sound good and in concert they lip sync. So talent is not talent for a lot of old music lovers like me

[@AndCymoneSays]

This is INCREDIBLE. I am so touched by this. To see an object that has gone unsung for centuries be able to touch the present thru such a talented flautist? That is history - past and present entwined. ❤❤❤

[@Thesmokeeffect]

I'm not a lizzo fan but my respect for her just went up. She is actually skilled

[@benjarferandez5517]

The theme is from Paganini's Carnival of Venice. Very light and delightful play.

[@Sandshrew282]

I'm a co-author on a research paper dedicated to that flute. It makes me so, so happy to be able to hear someone play it. It was made by Claude Laurent, and over the years the '''crystal''' glass, which was not actually leaded glass as the name implies but far less stable potash glass, became foggy and cloudy. The Library of Congress reached out to Dr. Isabelle Muller and the Vitreous State Lab of Catholic University to help them figure out why the flutes, and other glass items in their collection, were gradually losing theirtransparency Through both non-invasive UV fluorescence testing and chemical analysis of small chips taken from damaged portions at the joints where the flute can be disassembled into its component pieces, it was discovered the the water in the air (due to the INTENSE humidity from both DC summers and some of the flutes being played) was actually leaching the potassium from the glass, causing micro-fine cracking on the surface. This cracking phenomenon is known as "crizzling" and if left unchecked, it will eventually advance until there is nothing left of the glass but dust. The flutes are now safely stored in a humidity-controlled room (I've been allowed in there, and you can actually see it in the background of the shots where Ms. Lizzo plays some of the other flutes!) and carefully wiped down after every time they're even touched, to ensure that water does not linger on the surface of the instrument. The leaching process takes a very long time, and while it is accelerated at higher temperatures, one person playing the flute would do nothing. Especially not compared to the years it was allowed to sit in the summer's heat. The flute also would have been cleaned and dried properly and promptly after Ms. Lizzo played it, so all's well! No harm done!

[@Sandshrew282]

Fun follow up- that preservation room has several other instruments in it, including several other flutes! Some are wood, some are bone (including one made of human bone) and several are also made of glass! There's a VERY green one made of Uranium glass (DCM 0011) which is quite pretty to look at! And also kinda fun to listen to with the Geiger counter ha ha ha ha!

[@rloomis3]

Fascinating stuff; thanks for sharing!

[@sean-sinclair]

Super insightful. Thanks for sharing

[@TheColossalBlanket]

Wow that was really interesting to read! Thanks for sharing 🙂

[@EllaWatson]

That is really fascinating and useful. This should be posted at the top.

[@UrbanAstroLA]

I never cared much for Lizzo before this and was dismissive of her, thinking she was just a pop culture product...but now I know she is very thoughtful and multi talented. Respect. Anyone crying about this and not seeing her humanity and reverence for the history is a snowflake.

[@mhansl]

Same.

[@dustyking8851]

Her playing that at her concert probably changed so many kids minds about what they can & can't achieve. As young people of color how many times have they seen an idol do something like That!?! Never I'm guessing. I was fortunate my school sent us to the symphony and other musical events, mostly the symphony and it does help a kid learn more. Music can change everything. And she just changed someone's life.

[@deborahgreen539]

so you think al children of color is in poverty and dont know about musical instruments? where do you get that bs from

[@dustyking8851]

@@deborahgreen539 No I don't. I can tell you how horrible our education system is so down on the list of "1st world nations" we should all be embarrassed. So many schools have cut art classes, music & slashed budgets for sports. Kids don't get recess anymore. Predominantly white schools are better equipped and they suck. But white people do have that privilege and it's wrong. Like Beverly Hills High is a public school, they get obscene amounts of money because the tax rates are so high & that money stays in Beverly Hills. How much $$$ do you think South Central or Inglewood or even Hollywood?? Those 3 together might make up the budgets for 1 school. How the hell are we supposed to help people with out the money in their districts? It prejudice plain and simple & I've seen it my entire life. So that wasn't a slam at all people of color, it's a slam against school districts. No offense was meant, but it's not equal & it's wrong.

[@anonymousdratini]

Her face is like how I would be if I were granted the opportunity to play an OG Stradivarius like how WILD

[@crystalpeaches7825]

i would probably cry just touching a stradivarius

[@latiti0108]

Just when you think you can't love lizzo more she shows up and shows out! The girl is talented! Thank you for bringing these pieces of history to light and spark and motivate the youth on music. Inspiring young people to learn music and play instruments. I actually will love to go see these pieces at the museum.

[@McAster99]

Classically trained flutist who has spent time with the famous orchestras, helps bring attention and knowledge to unique and historic flutes in the U.S. Seems great to me.

[@wyrdsis4302]

Lizzo is so amazing and talented! I knew she played the flute but I don’t think I’d heard her. She’s freaking awesome.

[@LuisMartinez-jk3yo]

Wait… this is what people are complaining about?? That was beautiful!

[@mhansl]

I, literally, just had the same experience. Dude at work was complaining so virulently, I was not expecting such such skill and beautiful tone.

[@banksyownby9600]

Absolutely beautiful! Too bad she can’t get regular time with the crystal flute. I imagine it would take time to truly master such a finely tuned instrument and she was already making gorgeous music in the short time she had it.

[@kayliecrain3254]

I would love to see her progress even just after a week! She’s making some of the most gorgeous music I’ve ever heard 1 instrument make. Heartbreaking that it was probably once in a lifetime

[@noodleydoo2862]

Apparently they do regular concerts at the library of Congress with historical instruments like this (though Lizzo isn’t usually the one playing it) and work very hard to keep their instruments preserved in working order so that they can be experienced in action. I had no idea before Lizzo drew attention to it- it’s super cool!!!

[@hollyabair]

I used to play the flute and I cannot imagine how difficult it would be to play one made of cut crystal like that.

[@HushBedtimeStories]

Love this, she's so talented. I really hope through her music she'll encourage a whole generation to take up an instrument. It'd be amazing if she did an album of flute music, a combination of classical and other genres - it'd show people don't have to stay in their "assigned lane"!

[@pattyandersen5516]

Oh my goodness. She really is talented.

[@melaniewalter6601]

her laugh at the end of playing each one 🥹🥹💛

[@RachaelCates_CarrotCates]

I can't stop watching this! I wish I had you to look up to as a young flautist. You must have felt like an absolute kid in a candy store with all of those instruments! I'd love to see a whole documentary on this day with a walkthrough of all the instruments. I had no idea they stored anything like that there!

[@christicovington]

I think this is a wonderful thing and makes history come to life. It also might introduce and influence younger people to music and history in a way that they can relate to or see it in a different way than they are used to.

[@AMVmushroom]

damn she's talented. Right wing trigged again. Always losing

[@mahalokoka]

Musical instruments are meant to be played. And she played it beautifully.

[@tremorsfan]

Just think, this is the first time that sound has come out of that flute in over 200 years. Flutes are meant to be played.

[@way7952]

1:47 The subtitles couldn't get it but she's saying "that's the opening to the Poulenc", one of the most famous flute sonatas.

[@shermanmcclesky6882]

This beautiful woman doesn't deserve any criticism. Do you know who you are when you make such criticisms...??? YOU'RE THE PROBLEM, NOT HER... Food for thought.

[@scottyskywalker5768]

Lizzy should play the flute instead of pop songs .

[@CatsandDragons7]

I don’t listen to her music very often, but Lizzo is really cool :)

[@cgrind3000]

I like her flute playing way more than her mainstream hits, no shade 😂😂😂

[@canilernproto3018]

I'd like to say this image of a black woman playing the 200 year old flute of a founding slave owner is beautifully healing for the nation.

[@bilac83]

This is inspiring me to start practicing my flute again ❤

[@ElLoboNegroReacts]

That was amazing! Shout out miss Lizzo

[@trinitybair7516]

I hope this inspires a new generation of band kids!

[@SonaROX86]

How stunning.She should put out a classical flute album for Christmas

[@Ranakade]

I swear there are tons of pop stars and artists with undiscovered musical talent. They just have no choice but to make pop music for a living.

[@yoymate6316]

she seems like such a cool person lol i love her

[@annetteking1138]

She plays wonderfully

[@HatedAlways]

Cringe

[@AngryGayPope]

This is the beauty of a country that no longer allows legalized slavery. Throughout his life, James Madison's views on slavery and his ownership of slaves were complex. James Madison grew up on a plantation that made use of slave labor. He viewed slavery as a necessary part of the Southern economy, though he was troubled by the instability of a society that depended on a large slave population.

[@wwaxwork]

Not only is she playing the flute beautifully, she is playing a flute that is not keyed to the normal flute she plays and that uses an antiquated simple keying system. The fact she can play it so well shows how much she knows about the flute and that she has studied historical musical instruments. This would be like you being able to not only translate a book fluently from one language to another but to translate it into Middle English at the same time sure you could do it, but it would take time, practice and years of study

[@incognito_.]

@@suburbanyobbo9412 like you can do better

[@suburbanyobbo9412]

@@incognito_. I can’t say I’ve practiced twerking because it is ugly, so no I probably couldn’t do it at all.

[@MandPKratz]

@@suburbanyobbo9412 ^^ and this right here says more about your critique than anything, funny how a little bit of but shimmies sends people right to "omg, that was terrible"

[@suburbanyobbo9412]

@@MandPKratz Have you calmed down from your outraged comment earlier?

[@jim2win2]

@@suburbanyobbo9412 brother relax. There are better outlets for your anger than this.

[@maxamillionfrontiers9768]

She is a classically trained flautist who has played with symphonies.R and B is her other musical side.Y'all just seeing her classical side for the first time but if you know you know.

[@wishusknight3009]

I was impressed with how she played it. She is really good.

[@CATsissta]

I never even knew she had a classical side and now I respect her even more!!

[@kenlake416]

THIS is what people are mad about?!? WTF this is beautiful

[@Oromie9]

No, people are made she played it while twerking

[@Derfalken]

@@Oromie9 People are stupid. It's nice she had fun with it.

[@genomills9]

Yeah I don't get it. Sounded really good though

[@jasonmoran5152]

@@Oromie9 no, they're mad that black people exist.

[@bearnecessities4884]

@@Oromie9 let's be real, they're mad she's playing the flute while black.

[@nancyfmallen]

I had never heard or known about Madison's Crystal Flute, until Lizzo brought it to the forefront of contemporary historical recognition! 👏 👏 👏

[@dmurray2978]

Disgusting

[@Narokkurai]

@@dmurray2978 There's nothing disgusting about it.

[@RATsnak3]

@@dmurray2978 What about it?

[@hellcatbigrude8890]

@@Narokkurai James Madison is a slave owner and he never 👎🏾 help any slaves get free 🤦🏾‍♂️ learn your history first before u speak

[@NameThem8888]

Gross.

[@kimberlyrodrigues2998]

A flute without a flautist is an incredibly sad thing to me. She gave a beautifully made instrument life and purpose, and it is incredibly moving

[@blackleague212]

Im glad to see them let her play. She plays so well and she surely is getting lots of attention. Good for her

[@TimeMasterOG]

@@blackleague212 She shouldnt have been allowed to touch the thing...

[@AcceberJane]

@@TimeMasterOG well good thing it wasn't up to you, huh? Funny how that works

[@TimeMasterOG]

@@AcceberJane You only say that cuz you just love it when freaks like her just slobber all over historical items that shouldnt be touched

[@blackleague212]

@@TimeMasterOG I wish you people would stop. There is no reason to hate on Lizzo at all. Sit back and think about what you guys are doing. Stop it right now.

[@autumnleaves5973]

As a fellow flautist, she plays beautifully. And that acoustic in the end, wow!

[@nancid.9194]

This! As a musician, I would die to play in that room. The acoustics were just so good!

[@SadieAtCollege]

What is the name of this solo?

[@douglasoligney1001]

im a flooter ,(self taught flautist ) ,i noodle and doodle and dont really have a clue what im doing ,i can play most pop songs by ear and pick up the basics of melody ,with that said ,o would LOVE to play that room with my 200 dollar chinese flute let alone a masterpiece like that ,can you imagine the craftsman that made that flute when he found out it was being given to someone who didnt even play ?

[@suburbanyobbo9412]

Why are there so many people outraged that she has received some criticism. It is so sad that some of her fan base are so angry and easily upset.

[@torresstewart]

@@suburbanyobbo9412 its not her fan base I believe, its random american racists and butt hurt people upset about the fact that she was twerking for 2 seconds while she played, which im sure would have made Madison giggle too if he saw it. Half of those people didnt even know the library of congress had this flute so their anger is silly like a child throwing a tantrum.

[@emilyn7831]

Omg. As a flute player, my respect for her just went up. She plays beautifully and learning the flute isn't easy

[@brianwnek957]

She said the 5th she don’t make music for white people so she should be canceled

[@seeratbhatia8405]

Same here bro

[@coffee8814]

you sicken me, i hope you dont breed

[@BlickiMinaj]

Fr I can’t even keep a steady stream of air because my throat practically hurts every day

[@murasakino101]

Samee like she is how good I wish I was in high school 😭 Some people consider flute easy but it can be really difficult, especially when it comes to air control, staying in tune, and other techniques

[@johngregory7167]

I may not dig her style of music, but I can't deny that was beautiful and very impressive. She clearly is a very talented woman. Cheers Lizzo.

[@freeffree4133]

She's too fat

[@shaneflores5657]

She has a skill. She is using her skill. I can't judge her for using that skill to play an instrument that I don't have the skill to play, because I'm not trained in that like she is. I would rather her play the instrument than for it to stay dormant. It has a history that many people can finally know more about. I think it's a great way to get people interested in James Madison and the war of 1812.

[@hellcatbigrude8890]

James was a slave owner

[@machinshin2253]

@@hellcatbigrude8890 So what? He, and the pipe, are still a part of history, and if you're American or French, a part of our shared history. This flute exists, it is a beautfiul, fairly unique, instrument and it's beautiful that Lizzo shows that off so well, and that the history of this thing is coming out. The past existed, those people, in all their beauties and flaws existed. All of humanity's history is your history, mine, everyone's. We should honor it, and learn from it; in the hopes that we stop making the same mistakes over and over and over again. Without the hope that things will get better, that our inheritors will know a world that is fuller and richer than our own, life is pointless, and evolution is vastly overrated

[@davrosdaleks1]

@Ares It’s not like there weren’t people against it back then (the abolitionists.)

[@pilsung26]

@@machinshin2253 So …, if you’re interested in education, it’s a CENTRAL part of our history too “By 1801, Madison's slave population at Montpelier was slightly over 100. During the 1820s and 1830s, Madison was forced by debts to sell land and slaves. In 1836, at the time of Madison's death, he owned 36 taxable slaves. Madison did not free any of his slaves either during his lifetime or in his will.” Those numbers are PEOPLE 💔

[@douglasoligney1001]

@Ares not to the slaves it wasnt and yes the !@#$%^& you can blame him for that ,dont care when it was it is and always has been wrong to control another human by force for the sake of your own enrichment

[@RutabegaNG]

Classically trained flautist Lizzo plays James Madison's crystal flute in acoustically stunning space.

[@hellcatbigrude8890]

But James was a terrible person he enslaved Black people facts he was a slave owner

[@salsalvio821]

Thanks for repeating what you heard

[@edwardmontoya50]

Girl actually knows what she is doing, understands phrasing, breath structure, articulation, pitch. I love that she is bigger, has long nails and raps. She just brought in thousands of dollars to music programs in schools everytime she is recorded playing her flute. Playing an accoustic instrument teaches you to slave and try over and over to make a pretty sound. Doesn't matter how good you get, it's still hard to make it sound pretty. I spent over 100K learning to play the bassoon, the bass of the woodwind family. Girl is good and does good for all the little black girls and fat black boys around the world who now feel so proud to be learning an instrument. Queen!!! She should be and ambassador to the music community.

[@diplamatikjuan3595]

Why do you love that she is fat?

[@Nik-ny9ue]

teaches you to what? 👁️👄👁️

[@iandean1112]

I've spent about $50k on different trombones over the years. I'm a slave.

[@Nik-ny9ue]

@@iandean1112 I hear that

[@JLKDOOM]

Fat what you say? Lol

[@cindyduncan736]

James Madison's crystal flute sounds amazing!!! I had no idea such a thing existed. Thank you, Lizzo, for playing it so beautifully and bringing it to our attention.

[@steakgang]

@@thelasttaarakian seems irrelevant but ok

[@clarinetstar14]

@@thelasttaarakian and you need to lose your prejudice

[@xman4399]

@@thelasttaarakian you done throwing spaghetti at the wall to try and change the conversation or….

[@Bogframe]

@@thelasttaarakian You need to learn some manners.

[@caffeinefree667]

@@thelasttaarakian how does that correlate with playing a flute

[@robl7532]

I love how there are stories of negative opinions on her playing this. I had issues at first, due to her being a pop personality when we have tons of folks who have spent decades perfecting this instrument in orchestras across the nation. Then I sought it out and listened to her play, now standing corrected. I think her playing this adds to the education of it's existence, adds to her credibility as a musical talent, AND just plain worth smiling over. Well done ma'am, this was outstanding!

[@emilyprentice5581]

Yeah, she is a classically trained flutist and was taught by a world-renowned teacher. She actually had to decide which profession she wanted more, going on to play in orchestras or pursuing a pop career. She chose the latter and is using that platform to promote the arts. She's done interviews about it. She saw herself inspiring people more by the route she chose and she was spot on. Even as a big girl, she exercises regularly, eats healthy, and encourages her audience to do the same. I'm not a fan of hers, but when I looked her up I realized she never promoted being big, she wanted to encourage people to be confident even though they're big, but work towards improving. She strikes me as a good example.

[@Zookmottin]

Keep your dog whistle shaded sexism to yourself brother

[@izzyscreamin]

A professional taught her how to play. A well renowned flutist at that. I know nothing about the instrument but I was also in awe. It made me go check out her music cause I also judged her based on her pop star status. One of the best humble pies I ate all year!

[@terraguttierez2996]

Glad she changed your mind. The first time i heard her play she was singing a song THEN STARTED PLAYING THE FLUTE. I was damn impressed

[@Qleverett]

Would a nazi flute be okay? She would have been OWNED if she met them

[@ebarnsey]

The last clip where she plays in the large chamber hall with the amazing acoustics just brought a tear to my eye. That was friggin beautiful!

[@villedocvalle]

LIZZO has the power to make us all proud patriots

[@howtomeetwomen-]

literally crying

[@mrlawilliamsukwarmachine4904]

Have you heard Paul Horn? He did a recoding in the Taj Mahal. Also in a pyramid.

[@Sylaira]

That's the main reading room of the Library of Congress. It has a beautiful dome above it. (They asked readers' permission for her to play while they were researching...)

[@Rubiecat]

I was going to make the same comment, what a gorgeous sound !

[@otakub3atz2397]

Not the racists acting like they knew this flute existed before lizzo played it

[@finnwraith5319]

And as if the people defending this knew this flute existed either or who James Madison even was

[@all_things_beautiful6905]

Racists? Just why?

[@gabriellerussell8484]

THANK YOU FOR POSTING THIS!!! The other clips I’ve seen so far had people talking over the audio, and this is the FIRST TIME I’VE ACTUALLY BEEN ABLE TO HEAR THE AUDIO. I’m over the moon about getting to hear this! She is absolutely PHENOMENAL, and that instrument sounds so magical. 💗💗💗💗💗💗💗

[@Matthew-tg5ts]

She disrespected the flute by twerking. This is not the full clip

[@melissasmith6762]

Gabrielle Russell I bet you've listened to other flute players...right?

[@-Dolce_Far_Niente-]

@@Matthew-tg5ts 🤣🤣🤣

[@-Dolce_Far_Niente-]

@@melissasmith6762 and again!

[@kijanajenkins2546]

@Matthew Are you going to cry about it?

[@RonnieFlare17]

That's so cool! I had no idea crystal flutes were a thing or that Lizzo could play the flute! It's so beautiful, she is so beautiful and thank you!

[@mariacrane4511]

She played flute in her high school marching band, I believe.

[@charleslambert3368]

She did a degree in Classical Music with a focus on the flute at Houston. The problem with glass wind/brass instruments is that you can see all the spit/condensation that builds up on the inside (music room floors are nasty).

[@lauramoffitt4691]

You didn’t know she played the flute? You must not be acquainted with her music. She’s awesome

[@audio_library_98.75]

watch “Lizzo Up”. Beautiful documentary on her flute skills.

[@madabouthollyoaks411]

@@mariacrane4511 more than that she is a classically trained flutist

[@Lovely2291]

She plays so beautifully, I'd love to hear her take on a classical album

[@humanishummis1309]

@BrightForest lmao cope hard man, you’re just salty he’s happy😂

[@humanishummis1309]

@BrightForest if you’ve never seen this image you must be living under a rock lol, does it scare you?

[@EscargoTouChaud]

The last piece, played in that beautiful room, was incredible! The music conjured images of sunny forests and magic.

[@jeffwheaton1733]

Instruments were intended to be played......this flute should be made available to those accomplished for recording purposes, special concerts, and many other opportunities. What a great flute ambassador.

[@Sophia_Grace232]

No it should be played very rarely because crystal can deteriorate over time. Just like wood rotting over time if soaked in so much water. Playing something so old will wear it down and it will eventually break and fall apart. It’s a beautiful piece but should be kept for view only and sometimes world class flute players, playing it at IMPORTANT events not damn right every show that’s disrespectful considering it a cherished artifact.

[@1Flagwaver]

And then you realize she is playing this piece completely from memory. She is an amazing flautist.

[@NuggieIsMissing]

Y’all pressed about the twerking but ignoring the fact that she’s amazing at playing a difficult instrument WHILE and having fun. Stfu and enjoy the fact that it didn’t break

[@FreedomToRoam86]

I don’t see why people are upset. She played beautifully despite being nervous. Did she twerk a bit? Yes, and so what? She is a beautiful lady, celebrating life and being alive. It’s not like she was in church or doing it with a Bible or something, and it’s about time those flutes got played!

[@natashagreen4723]

They're upset because she's a very successful, happy, black, fat woman. People who have nothing else going for them except their white/male/thin privilege get really mad when they see someone like that succeeding.

[@WillyShankspeare]

You KNOW why people are pissed.

[@918Mitchell]

@@WillyShankspeare because not even James Madison felt worthy of playing it and they take it out for an entitled childish celebrity to play? Or you're taking the uneducated road and implying anyone who criticizes this is racist.

[@anasexualdragonwithinterne2912]

@Jon M I've had a chance to meet Lizzo she's a wonderful person who preaches self love, positivity, and joy. And she is definitely more qualified to play the flute than James Madison.

[@Deridus]

I would have preferred a little bit more dignity. That said, never going to deny her ability. She made that flute sing. I don't really know anything about her, so I can't really speak to anything besides the fact that a centuries old artifact no longer exists. 'Madison's unplayed crystal flute' is now 'Madison's crystal flute.' A lot of mystery was destroyed there, and I rather resent that.

[@StevieSosa]

She treats it with a good amount of reverence, and shes a very good floutist. Very cool for her!

[@lizseg1954]

As she should!!! She is a talented flutist!

[@hajarmdn4883]

​@@spacewaver how so? please pray tell how her lips specifically did that? did they break it? chip it? played it badly? or is it because they're not the color or gender that you approve off?

[@thenotoriousjody4818]

Yea, so much reverence there…I always associate twerking in the Library of Congress with reverence 🙄

[@thenotoriousjody4818]

⁠@@hajarmdn4883Aaaand someone makes it about race. Never fails. Was the commenter not of a color or gender you approve of?

[@thedigitaldummy3098]

Her skill in the flute is nothing short of admirable. However, I can’t shake a feeling of disgust from seeing someone like her be the first to play such a priceless artefact compounded by all that skill she does indeed have being thrown to the wayside so she can rake in the cash from producing pop garbage centred around the abhorrent fat acceptance movement.

[@izzyscreamin]

One of two things saved and she created beautiful notes with something no one else has ever played.

[@garypeequaquat5873]

Except someone else played it

[@Eltercero]

Yeah. What was the evidence no one ever played it?

[@rufff1186]

@@Eltercero idk if it’s true but someone just commented that some collage student played it or something a few years ago

[@hamhotpocket3788]

​@@rufff1186 College*

[@Jan_von_S]

Yeah no one ever bro, this is so inspiring. Not even James Madison played it I heard

[@sathyakuechler9306]

Modern flute is completely diff than this one. She’s obviously studied musical history, classical, and knows the art of flutes throughout history. That’s like George Harrison receiving a 300 year old harp and playing it with no problem. She’s so incredibly talented.

[@johnray920]

This flute is actually incredibly similar to modern boehm system flutes. You can see it has a key for each hole that the fingers need to cover, at least 8. It’s effectively the same as playing a modern flute.

[@bilbobaggins5704]

@@johnray920 Yes...more than similar. This is because the flute she's playing in the LOC main reading room with the Briccialdi Carnevale de Venezia Op. 78 isn't the 4 keyed Crystal Glass Madison flute made by Laurent in 1813 but it's a plexiglass modern flute with Boehm system dated 1937. There is a section (At about 0:40) of the vid. where she's on a large stage and she plays a few notes on the crystal flute from the Madison era. There was a huge amount of confusion about this because of the translucent similarities and many of the news outlets simply weren't informed.

[@johnray920]

@@bilbobaggins5704 This makes a lot more sense! I knew that something wasn’t quite right because the Madison crystal flute predates the boehm system by a couple decades so I just figured it was a similar predecessor but that is a much more satisfying answer, thanks!

[@bilbobaggins5704]

@@johnray920 Lizzo is a pretty decent flutist with the Briccialdi, Carnival of Venice that she learned by ear back in middle school. It's her 'go-to" show-off piece. She has nice technique on a Boehm system flute but the Laurent flute (Madison) is for all practical purposes the same as the Baroque Traverso from 1750's era and the fingerings and tunings are a real trip....for a Boehm flute player to grasp right off.

[@johndoe-fq7ez]

“There was a fire” the British burnt down the White House lol

[@horsetuna]

Canada has an entire song about it even.

[@tylerkochman1007]

Yeah, with a fire hun

[@timbretimbre1442]

“There was a fire… when he was away” that made me laugh

[@kennysmith1925]

We Canadians like to take credit for that. Sorry, not sorry eh.

[@horsetuna]

@@kennysmith1925 and the white house burned burned burned (and we're the ones that did it) It burned burned burned (while the president ran and cried)

[@beeftestosterone4840]

It’s great to see a pop star with actual musical talent

[@mayap331]

He never even played the damn flute he obviously didn’t gaf about it people are so insane to be mad about this

[@jamesfawcett4205]

she's amazing. she should do a flute album

[@austinismyhome5211]

Yes!

[@melissasmith6762]

@@austinismyhome5211 Do you two chuckleheads know that real flute players exist? If you like this, you can listen to that, but of course you won't.

[@MothGirl007]

Totally!

[@sakbrat1]

That would be awesome! She could do everything from classical to jazz to contemporary covers, and her own music.

[@NameThem8888]

I think she sucks.

[@AxmxZ]

I am so psyched to learn about this instrument and that it got played for the contemporary audience by such an accomplished flautist!!

[@zagiproductions1630]

She played a flute in her mv and I didn’t realize she could actually play 😂

[@melissasmith6762]

What did she accomplish?

[@themroc8231]

@@melissasmith6762 More than you ever will, dear.

[@mrlawilliamsukwarmachine4904]

@@themroc8231 give a proper answer! When you use words, they have meaning. Either you used the right word, but someone wants clarification, or it’s the wrong word. I say this because I play flute, sax, clarinet, melodica and harmonica. All just for fun, clumsily. I have many many many flute LPs on vinyl and have been to flute gigs. People give me money when I practice outdoors. I appreciate Lizzo’s flute playing. I just wish she didn’t play the stereotypical mama+Jezebel role. They’re exploiting her as a fool or clown.

[@themroc8231]

@@mrlawilliamsukwarmachine4904 That thing where people started saying she was playing the mammy stereotype was just plainly heinous, racist and fatfobic. What made a "mammy" a "mammy" was not that she was a black woman that was fat (and often old). It was that it was a stereotype 1- invented in racist white narratives 2 - who found her happiness in serving the children of her masters As a matter of fact, the fatness and the age of the "mammy" were signifiers that the mammy was not sexually threatening, which supposedly made her a better servant to serve inside the house in the family environment. I don't know if you have gathered that by now, but Lizzo on the other hand is not shy about affirming her sexuality. But the fact that now the half-understood stereotype of the "mommy" could be used to put down emerging, talented and OUTSPOKEN independent black artists is just heinous. Because face it: the only reason you call her a "mammy" now is because she is black + fat. There can literally be no other motive. So you are using old racist stereotypes from white narratives to put down a contemporary black artist for her skin colour and her body type. Go f... yourself.

[@meggles881]

The guys at work tried to make this a bad story. I'm glad this video is up to demonstrate that Lizzo has love and care for flutes. Shes extremely talented and I'm glad she's bringing these historical artifacts back into the light for others to enjoy.

[@piratemeow]

I keep watching the last clip over and over. The flute sounds so beautiful, it sounds crystal clear (no pun intended) and the acoustics of the room just resonate the notes perfectly. Not to mention what she played fits so perfectly given the historical context. As you should, Lizzo!

[@JTV84]

this.

[@NameThem8888]

I refused to actually watch it. Heard it sucked.

[@rherd]

@@NameThem8888 you are next level weird

[@NameThem8888]

@@rherd Thanks.

[@chey8032]

The last piece was stunning! Could you tell me what it is she played? I've been listening to it over and over as well 😁

[@PK-sc2vn]

Good on her, she's clearly very talented. Might not be my type of music, but she's doing really well for herself. It's abundantly clear why people dislike her, they're just too cowardly to say out loud.

[@MissLilyputt]

I love how she plays the flute with so much joy. She’s just a joy to listen to.

[@clf8668]

I am totally frustrated and mad that she was allowed to play my relatives flute even though my son who plays the flute from fifth grade through high school and still plays I wouldn’t want him to play it. my seventh great grandmother Mary Elizabeth Madison is the great aunt of President James Madison my 3rd cousin 6x removed, I am totally distraught about this

[@clf8668]

Now with what’s coming out about her I’m more disgusted…….

[@tommybrown9534]

Agreed

[@coolbreeze5683]

I'd be terrified of dropping a crystal flute and it shattering! When I would play my metal one, my hands would get sweaty so I couldn't imagine playing something made of glass. Good on Lizzo! She got a beautiful sound out of it.

[@leasagna2202]

Pop off queen

[@slavic_bumpkin624]

This is revolutionary in a way, James Madison was extremely racist and fought for segregation and the fact we have come so far now that a woman of color can play it in such historical places is amazing.

[@Eragarev]

She's such a sweetheart. 💖

[@TLDOtaku445]

Uhhh how does this desecrate James Madison? This should be applauded

[@beeman7711]

Lizzo is getting sued for some really disgusting stuff, if true... what a sick and horrible person she is😬

[@MsAbilityMC]

Damn, I want a full Lizzo performance of the Poulenc sonata now!

[@Chainsawctopus]

I was thinking EXACTLY that 😍

[@melissasmith6762]

@@Chainsawctopus You two chuckleheads do realize you can listen to OTHER flute players...right?

[@nevaklemenc1997]

But it seems she has nothing to wear on the stage?!

[@nicewalrus997]

I've never known this flute existed in the first place She's an icon literally, love it for her!

[@feliciajenkins5041]

She's a classically trained musician and didn't destroy it. I'm lmfao at the hate . People are showing what they're made of 🗑️.

[@henrytawnn8694]

Right? It's not like she broke in and stole them and disrespected them. Knowing who Lizzo is, they invited her to play them. And she did amazing. Haters are just showing their jealousy.

[@feliciajenkins5041]

@@henrytawnn8694 they didn't give kartrashian no smoke and she destroyed Marilyn's gown. That flute is still in tact.

[@jenniferanderson7010]

She's extremely talented. I mean, I knew she could sing, I did NOT know she played the flute. That takes a lot of skill and talent. Go Lizzo, go!

[@cartqueen6114]

Yes she is a very talented flute player! There’s some videos out there of her playing flute songs (i mean like actually flute songs not the short bits from songs) she’s awesome

[@bangingbeatz6484]

less cheeseburgers 🤦🏾‍♂️

[@gr33ngirlsea]

Yes! I'm pretty sure she has her Bachelors degree in flute performance!

[@RosaHernandez-uw2ul]

She has played the flute while dancing on stage! Very talented woman.

[@seewhativescene]

????????@@bangingbeatz6484 ??????????? You know you're a loser, right?

[@b1njjj95]

What a lovely performance! And to think that there are actually people out there that are butt hurt by this. How sad. Almost makes me want to draw Lizzo as a forest fairy playing this flute, just to piss them off. 😏

[@laurab2278]

Please! Do it! I woukd love to see that drawing!

[@b1njjj95]

@@laurab2278 I will! Maybe I'll make her a forest elf too. :)

[@meritatennyson3290]

Please do that for Lizzie that would be great.

[@deborahgreen539]

yes many are still hurt that the little mermaid is not black.... and nowLizzo plays a flute in LOC and people loved it.. oh ad she is a blck woman

[@ashleighemery4601]

I get literal chills and goosebumps hearing her play. It sounds so beautiful and otherworldly. She could legitimately perform a song in LOTR or another big TV series and make it come alive. I can't get over how beautifully she sings and how beautifully she plays the flute. Lizzo is an incredible artist and she has incredible messages in her music. thank you for sharing. ❤️

[@tiffanypryor13]

Black girl magic

[@caustin718]

Why are people BIG mad? She was amazing!

[@earthsurgery1237]

Why are people mad that white people exist. The world may never answer these mysteries

[@caustin718]

@@earthsurgery1237 get some help!

[@Jormbis]

the idea that a flute is old and crystal scares me because i would drop it, and yet she holds it so gently and beautifully

[@jmannii]

She reminded a lot of people that you can be a pop musician and a classically trained musician at the same time.

[@yeseniamelinasoto7020]

She twerked with the flute that’s not classy at all, I’m sure James Madison would be angry

[@xman4399]

@@yeseniamelinasoto7020 James Madison the dude who owned slaves and came up with the idea of the 3/5 compromise. Seems to me she’s leaps and bounds more classy than that slaver

[@yeseniamelinasoto7020]

@@xman4399 hmm I guess you changed my mind, wow what a classy woman. If you are ok with this you have no class

[@courtney-ray]

@@yeseniamelinasoto7020 if he’d be angry then that’s plain fine! Given his perspective of Black ppl in general, just her holding it as a Black woman would’ve made him angry…as it would any bigoted person. Case in point: clearly it made you upset.

[@yeseniamelinasoto7020]

@@courtney-ray of course it made me upset, I would love us women to have some self respect

[@logann-mackenziefroste563]

I didn’t know that Lizzo was an accomplished flutist! That’s awesome and amazing !

[@RvBDopp]

The sound that flute makes in the reading room with those acoustics brought tears to my eyes. So beautiful

[@acebooncoon669]

All that racism holding her back 😭

[@margaretadami6358]

She should probably stick to playing the flute seriously. I’m impressed. Lizzo, stay away from the skin flute tho

[@LadyDragon11135]

You can see how much love she has for the music and instruments and just how excited she is to be playing them. She is so genuine and pure here and people are mad, f that noise, I’ll listen to her any day

[@sharonanderson3851]

I have to admit that when I read about her twerking and using profanity about playing that flute I wished she had been more classy about it. Now having seen her performance at the Library of Congress, I am corrected. Her playing was beautiful and she brought attention to an instrument most of us never knew about. Kudos to a woman who is unabashedly herself.

[@yongjianyi3556]

I didn't know that crystals can be made into a flute, I thought she broke it or something from the way people complained!

[@kenthomas1109]

I’m sure the artisan who created it had no intention that it would be put away for centuries and never played. I’m so thrilled this happened.

[@pamelakincheloe754]

This is awesome, she is awesome, and I hope she inspires a lot of kids to take up classical instruments!

[@kasperoon]

Amazing talent Lizzo ! New found respect from me ❤. I’m classically trained flautist too. Love the tone coming off this crystal flute. Bravo 🫶🏻

[@MextizaCalifa]

YES OMYGOSH Did u hear it it put me in tears. Ive never heard a clearer just cleaner beutifull sound put of a flute like that was amazed.

[@melissasmith6762]

@@MextizaCalifa Do you even listen to other flautists?

[@melissasmith6762]

@@AnarchoDogma Say what?