Re: Long notes for Piccolo?

In article <_tadnR5vWtrU-UbenZ2dnUVZ_tudnZ2d@xxxxxxxxxxx>, Alabaster
<noemail@xxxxxxxxxxx> wrote:

> I should clarify--I realize that it's impossible to have an inaudible
> attack at that high pitch. I shouldn't have used the term 'inaudible.'
> But can the note begin quietly enough that it would be masked (or
> mostly masked) by a 24-piece string ensemble sustaining midrange notes
> at mp-mf?
>
> Also, how about the duration of the notes--is this too much for a
> flutist's lungs?

I have done some experimentation on a flute (not piccolo) with what I
think is a constant about mp-mf, and then I can hold more than 20 seconds,
up to 30 seconds, and I am no pro. When I try to make a crescendo, it
really depends on how quickly one moves into higher dynamics, which
consumes the air quickly. Then 16 seconds really depends on how log time
higher dynamics will be required. Also (using A4 = 440 Hz), I experimented
with the notes C6-D6 (third octave of the flute), and C5-B5 (second octave
of the flute). What then happens is that the dynamics of the flute weaken
in the lower range, so if one should keep the same airflow to keep the
same duration, the mf will be a mp. On the other hand, above D6, it
becomes increasingly difficult to play soft dynamics.

So, in summary, I think you could try C6-D6, which will optimize
dynamics,  minimize the airflow needed, and also make the risk of the
flute being covered by the other instruments. On a piccolo, it would be
the notes C7-D7. But get a pro trying it out.

--
Hans Aberg
.

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