PREFACE

As the title MUSIC, TECTONICS AND FLUTE PLAYING indicates, this book is not confined only to the traditional matters concerning the flute. In fact, the flute player will find that certain topics, such as the history of flute and flute playing, its construction and maintenance, repertoire etc., are missing.

One of the primary objectives of my book was to examine the unique phenomenon of music, and to formulate principles which must not be broken if a performer wishes to communicate successfully with the audience. More specifically, the sources of music, their relationship to music performance and to all levels of forms, as well as recognition of the tension/relaxation pattern as a fundamental method of organization of music, have all been analyzed and integrated. The performance rules, some of which are articulated for the first time, do not regiment, but rather explain the concept of excitement and fantasy in music. Fantasy and excitement are no longer borne from the breach of rules. Some new ideas requiring a new vocabulary are elucidated by musical examples. Although some of the examples are taken from the flute repertoire, the largest section "Musical Communication", is intended for any person who is interested in the understanding and evaluation of musical performance.

The section entitled "The Chemistry of Learning" examines the complexity of the learning process in the light of science. The methodical approach and guidelines evolved are valid or any instrumentalist; if implemented consistently, they shall liberate the student from undue fears of technical failure and thus help preparation for the highly competitive performer's career. Although my advice on flute playing may at times be seen as being viewed from an unusual angle, it is firmly based upon the general principles of musical communication, anatomy and acoustics. My ultimate goal is to provide guidance which encompasses an awareness of all facets of musical art with the optimum use of body and brain.

Persons involved in Musical Communication - Sources of Music - Musical Articulation [Vocal communication and human behaviour; Startle reaction and vocal communication; Impulse intensity formula] - Sources of Tension and Energy in Music - Elementary Form. Integration of Rhythm and Metre. - Typology of Musical Ideas and Forms - Musical Ideas - Fantasy Tools - Sound Production and Physics - The Chemistry of Learning - Three kinds of Human Movement [Posture; Holding the flute; Finger technique] Breathing and Breathing Controls. Circular Breathing - Tonguing [Articulation and tonguing; Isolated, continuous and multiple tonguing] - To be a Flautist.