BETWEEN FLUTE AND PICCOLO Exploring Switching Between Flute and Piccolo with Stravinsky’s The Firebird Suite as an Interpretational Case Study

Abstract

In this thesis I have explored what happens in my playing when I change between the flute and the piccolo. This thesis supported my daily practice and gave me ideas how to improve my playing technique when switching between the two instruments. I also included a symphony orchestra setting, where a flutist often has to change between instruments, and used Stravinsky’s The Firebird as a case study. To analyze my playing, I recorded audio materials from my seat in the orchestra, so I could have a better understanding what my playing really sounds like. Since I have played the flute much longer, and already had a good technical competence, this thesis focuses more on the piccolo. Especially on the moment when I change from flute to piccolo. The purpose of this thesis was to help me gather my own realizations in my playing technique and interpretation of my part in orchestra and at the same time offer inspiration and insight for anyone interested on the subject. My realizations in this thesis come from an individual perspective that is based on my own anatomy and to the instruments I use. I gathered information focusing on the technical aspects of playing my instruments, and what happens physically when I change instruments. Exploring these aspects gave me an understanding of what are the most important things I should focus on. These include for example embouchure flexibility and air support.