Flute Post - C-nat key

Irish Flute
1

I hope I am in the right forum. General question for all of you keyed fluters out there. I 've recently switched to a keyed flute after several years of keyless and I am having difficulty with making efficient use of the c-nat key. Muscle memory seems to always bring me back to cross fingering at fast tempo, and I do this without realizing it. Any suggestions on how to leverage the key and perhaps make it “easier to use than not”?

Thanks,
McCullagh

2

take a tune that is new to you, one that you have to start slow and learn it with the usage of the key. Once you get the hang of the C nat key, You’ll like it, it’s one that is placed well.

3

Hi, McCullagh.

I just don’t use the Cnat key, or the Bb. Just because it’s there doesn’t mean you have to use it. So I think of it in terms of RESALE value. :smiley:

But seriously: I like having keys; I just don’t feel required to use them all.

4

I find I use the key best when I slide up onto it from
the right. Also one way of using it that may get
you into it is to cut the G, just hit the C nat key
gently and there you are.

5

Thanks…good tips. I just spent the last two hours learning a new Jig (to me) The Drunken Gauger. I was able to work in the c-nat key nicely going GAB CBA…

The breakthrough. as Eilam suggested, was trying a new tune for which I had no tactile memory.

Back to more practice. The wife and kids are aseleep so I’m relegated to the garage. Thank Goodness for oscillating fans and fridge with plenty of cold ones.

McCullagh

6

when I first started playing the keyed flute, I compiled a CD that had tunes in Eb and other keys, and learning those tunes got me to use all the keys. The C-nat fir me is a much better key then say the G#, I think the French flutes have the G# much more naturally placed.
I also stayed away from playing the Boehm flute, because I was much more familiar with the keywork on the Boehm and was afraid to go two steps back, I have not played the Boehm for years, just don’t care for it.
You’ll get it, just stay away from the old, familiar, and comfortable ways for a bit.
best wishes, e.

7

I find the C natural key wonderful for slow airs. The tone produced with the key is stronger than any cross-fingering.