Five inspirational flute study books for the year ahead.

Study books are a must for all flute players. Try these cracking volumes to help you reach the next level.

Louis Drouet: 25 Studies for Flute

These 25 ‘Etudes Celebres’ by Louis Drouet are great! For a start they’re all tuneful which makes them easier to practice. Each one has a moderate technical challenge which can be anything from finger work to articulation or, if you are playing the slow ones, tuning and tone control. An added bonus is that this book works brilliantly for piccolo, alto flute and bass flute too. Now that’s value! Difficulty guide: 5-8

Helen Madden: 20 Fantastic Flute Studies

Each of the 20 short studies in Helen Maddens’ imaginative book has a specific purpose. This could be a simple as playing with the metronome to establish pulse, controlling articulation or a finger workout. It’s a very useful book! Difficulty Guide: 1-6

Elisabeth Parry: Micro Etudes for the Flute

This books covers all the basics of flute technique through a series of short exercises that can be linked together for a more challenging workout. The keys used are limited to four sharps or flats which means that it’s great for developing players who will benefit from the shorter format, adult returners who will appreciate less notes, and for anyone who could do with some fresh ideas. The accompaniments are of a high quality so you can even use it as a play-along. Now that really does make practice seem easier! Difficulty Guide: 5-8

Astor Piazzolla: Tango Etudes for Flute Solo

These six study-pieces will stretch not only finger technique but also embouchure control and rhythm skills. Each one is characterized by the large leaps, changing time signatures, cross accents and tempo fluctuations that enable Piazzolla to capture the bandoneon-concertino style of which he was a master. A fantastic flute workout and wonderful tango music too! Difficulty Guide: 8-9

Hilary Taggart: Imagine for Solo Flute – 25 Original Study-Pieces

Hilary Taggart has written each piece with a particular technical challenge in mind which makes targeting practice much easier. It also helps teachers who can use them as supplementary material when learning other repertoire. The titles are great too which is perfect. Difficulty Guide: 1-5

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