Looks like my kind sister ordered one for my Christmas stocking, will look forward to it…
You folks need to stop talking about this book! I’m sitting on pins and needles over here. 
Conal, it truly sounds like a wonderful piece of work. Hopefully I’ll get a look at it one day. 
Thanks to Conal for sending the book so quickly. I’m finding it very useful for improving my understanding of how to get, not just the notes, but the sound of the tune–the connection between the techniques of articulation and the phrasing. And well and amusingly written.
I find these books to be quite different. Conal’s book focuses on playing technique and critical listening…with regard to the latter, it is really a thrill to pop in the accompanying CD and hear the different players. Hammy’s book, while also addressing technique, provides a history of the flute and helpful information on maintenance and flute identification. The books complement each other nicely, and I recommend having both.
I also gifted myself with both books this Christmas, and Richard’s comments takes the words right out of my mouth. The two books compliment each other quite nicely. I do appreciate the spiral binding of Conal O Grada’s book, allowing it to lie open on my music stand.
Thanks all for the comments. They are both now on order…
Best wishes.
Steve
My copy arrived a few days ago. It’s great. Really, really worth the money — regardless of your level of play. Very easy to follow, and full of tips and alternative approaches. Along with June McCormack’s ‘Fliuit’, it’s my favorite for learning.
Also, it includes the first recording I’ve ever heard of glottal stops played without a flute, (tracks 24, 28). I might mix a loop of that to play at parties. 