Long tones are a vital part of not only learning how to play the flute, but playing at a high level. The tone you produce is the essence of everything you do as a flute player. Because of this, long tones should be the primary activity for your daily flute practice.

Even Juilliard Instructor and Philadelphia Orchestra Principal Flute, Jeffrey Khaner starts each practice day with long tones. “I may have had a wonderful concert last night. Played great. Really enjoyed myself,” says Khaner. “But the next morning, it’s a whole new day. After having slept the night, I am simply not where I was the night before and I have to work back up to it.”