Notation
Sometimes composers use little stripes on the stems if they want the performer to use flutter tongue.
Sometimes composer just write ‘fl.‘ of ‘flz.‘ in the score.
Piccolo - alto flute - bass flute
This technique can be used on all flutes.
Composer information
This technique is quite easy to realize as a separate technique. Flutter tongue can be used on the whole range of the flute. At higher notes and if the flute player has to play flutter tongue for a longer period of time, it becomes a bit more difficult. Not every flute player is able to roll the ‘r’. For professional flute players it shouldn’t be a problem.
Flute players
Studying flutter tongue on the flute is useful for:
– Opening the throat
– Relaxing the tongue
Example
Here you can listen to a short example of flatterzunge. I’m playing Mei by Fukushima.
Another example. This Flute Colors arrangement includes flutter tongue.
