Hi,

I'm going to be getting a brace soon and I'm very worried that it will effect the sound I make on the flute. I'm on Grade 4 and hoping to take the exam quite soon! Do you have to start learning how to blow all over again?

Thanks,
Jade.

Hi,
The girl who goes to my flute teacher before me had a brace fitted about two years ago, and she was about grade 3-4 standard, she found it a bit difficult to play her flute at first, but after she got used to it she was fine. try not to take the exam too soon after you get your brace, as you will probably need time to adjust, but once you get used to it you should be able to play just as well as before, also at your exam tell the examiner that you've just had your brace fitted, so they will understand if you don't play to the best of your ability.

Hope this helps
Meg_lili

Don't worry about it, Jade. I had braces for a couple of years and it didn't hold me back. I can't even remember which grades etc I took while wearing my braces, it made so little, if any, difference. Originally I had a removable brace (which was much bigger and more intrusive than a fitted one, which I had later), and I thought I'd always have to take it out to play my flute, but I only took it out a couple of times and then realised I didn't even need to bother. I agree with Meg_lili though, if you've only just had it fitted when you take your exam, do tell the examiner, you might as well!

Good luck

well, honestly, i have a friend who's also playing flute and wearing braces. but that doesnt seem to stop him because he is still as good as he used to be! but there's one thing that i would like to know. do crooked teeth actually affect your playing? i'm very curious about this. so, please tell me. thanks heaps!

Well, Ill be honest. I did find it much harder to play my flute at first, but like everyone has said, after about a week your playing will be back to normal!!! I understand why you are worried but if you find it difficult, don't despair, because I would almost promise you'll be fine after a week!! You might find the same thing happens when you have your brace removed as well - you almost get used to playing with a brace, but I reckon this just proves that its not actually the brace inhibiting your playing, its just a little change you've got to get used to.
Good Luck in your playing and don't worry about it!!!
Anna