A flautist, also known as a flutist, is someone who plays the flute. Professional flute players who play the flute for a living or those who have acquired a certain level of skill and play locally in various musical groups, such as regional symphonies, orchestras, jazz, and even the occasional rock band, can be referred to by either term. There are many ways to become a flautist, but they all begin with learning an instrument, usually in high school.
Many people can learn to play the flute in elementary school, and if they don’t, they can join a band program in junior or senior high school. Simply wanting to play the flute isn’t enough. Instrument mastery necessitates both time and talent, and some people possess only one of the two. With the exception of a few genius level players, flautists can expect to put in a lot of practice time to improve their skills.
Music programs in middle and high school can assist students in learning to play the flute and providing opportunities to perform. These programs are beneficial to many flautists, but they need to be supplemented with additional training. Private lessons, participation in youth symphonies, and playing for orchestras that support local theater endeavors may be beneficial to a flautist. Flautists with a lot of ambition can form their own bands.
Following high school, there may be options for what to do next. Flute players with exceptional talent can easily find work in orchestras or bands. If a flautist requires more time and effort, he or she should consider going to college and continuing to play. Some flute players attend music schools or conservatories to further their education.
When a flautist considers his or her training to be complete, he or she will join the musical ensembles that best suit his or her style. There are numerous opportunities to work as a professional flute player. Ian Anderson, a member of the British rock band Jethro Tull, is best known for his soaring flute accompaniments. Hubert Laws is a jazz flute player who is well-known today.
Even if the flautist has exceptional talent, he or she may not be able to reach these heights and will have to work in a variety of settings to make a living. Work in backing orchestras for musicals, studios as a session musician, with a variety of bands or other groups that are paid to perform, and in local, regional, or national symphonies are all possibilities. Flautists could supplement their income by teaching private lessons or teaching in public or private schools if they have the necessary credentials. Music remains a fiercely competitive industry, and as discouraging as it may be, not all flautists can sustain a musical career without having a secondary source of income.