Becoming a flutist requires acquiring instrumental skills, often starting in elementary school and continuing through private lessons, youth symphonies, and college. Flutists can play in orchestras, jazz or rock bands, and earn a living through various musical endeavors.
A flutist is someone who plays the flute, and the term flutist is also used. Either term can be used to discuss professional flute players who play the flute for a living or it can be applied to those who have acquired a certain amount of skill and play locally in various musical groups including regional symphonies, orchestras or jazz and even the occasional rock band. There are many paths to becoming a flutist, but they start by acquiring instrumental skills, usually no later than high school.
Many people have the opportunity to learn to play the flute in elementary school, and if not, they can join a band program at the elementary or high school level. It is not enough simply to want to play the flute. Mastering instruments takes time and talent, and some people have one of these and not the other. With the exception of a few genius-level players, people can expect many hours of practice to hone their skills as a flutist.
Middle school and high school music programs can help learn to play the flute and provide opportunities to play. Many flutists find these programs to be of great use, but need to go beyond them for advanced training. A flutist can benefit from private lessons, participation in youth symphonies and playing in orchestras that support local theater endeavors. The ambitious flute player can also form his own bands.
After high school, there may be options on what to do next. The most talented flute players can simply join orchestras or bands and start earning a living. The flutist who needs more time and work might consider college, where he can continue playing. Some flute players go specifically to music schools or train in conservatories.
When a flutist feels that training is complete, he will join the musical ensembles best suited to his style. There are many potential places to play the flute professionally. Ian Anderson of the British rock band Jethro Tull helped make that band famous for its soaring flute accompaniments. Hubert Laws is a modern artist celebrated for his jazz flute work.
Even with exceptional talent, the flutist may not reach these heights and may have to work in many different places to earn a living. Some potential places to look for work would be supporting orchestras for musicals, in studios as musicians, with a variety of bands or other groups that are paid to play, and in local, regional or national symphonies. The flutist could further increase income by giving private lessons, or those with credentials could teach in public or private schools. Music remains a highly competitive business and, discouraging as it may be, not all flutists can successfully pursue a music career without having a sideline that provides financial support.
Protect your devices with Threat Protection by NordVPN
