Talking Flutes
Welcome to the dynamic and captivating world of Talking Flutes, the ultimate Flute Podcast Channel that combines simplicity with sensational content. Join us as we unlock the secrets to flute mastery and dive into intriguing conversations with leading flute players, all while sprinkling in mental health awareness, stunning music, laughter, and boundless fun. Picture this: two extraordinary individuals with a passion for the flute come together to create something extraordinary. Meet Clare Southworth, a renowned flute player, author, golfer, and esteemed retired Professor at the Royal Academy of Music in London. Add to the mix Jean-Paul Wright, flute player, Clinical Hypnotherapist, Public Speaker, and the Managing Director of the world-famous TJ flute brand. Together, they form a duet that will entertain and inspire you throughout your flute journey. Prepare yourself for a symphony of engaging conversations as we sit down with some of the world’s most prominent flute players. From the legendary Sir James Galway to the mesmerising Jasmine Choi, Denis Bouriakov, Paul Edmund-Davies, Gareth Davies, and an extensive list of other phenomenal flute-playing guests, our podcast boasts an incredible lineup. And that’s not all – we’ll also be joined by Grammy and Emmy-winning musicians who will leave you in awe. But Talking Flutes is more than just remarkable interviews. We go beyond the flute to address mental health awareness, featuring advice and insights from Dr. Joe Stammeijer and Forensic Psychologist Dr Beth Wright. It’s essential to nourish not only your musical talents but also your well-being. Each episode is carefully crafted to provide a delightful blend of entertainment and education. Immerse yourself in captivating discussions, discover insider tips, and witness the magic of music as it intertwines with the stories and experiences of our esteemed guests. Laughter is the secret ingredient that infuses every episode, making Talking Flutes an enjoyable and light-hearted experience. So, are you ready to embark on this enchanting flute-filled journey? Subscribe to Talking Flutes today and join the vibrant community of flute lovers. Let the music, laughter, and wisdom nourish your passion for the flute and leave you craving more. It’s time to let your flute dreams soar with Talking Flutes as your trusted guide.
Episodes
Episodes
Monday Mar 18, 2024
Monday Mar 18, 2024
As musicians, we often find ourselves caught up in a whirlwind of rehearsals, performances, and the pursuit of perfection. But have you ever stopped to consider where your sense of self-worth lies amidst this relentless chase? This is the heart of our latest podcast episode.
In a candid conversation, Jean Paul Wright guides us through the often-overlooked aspect of a musician's life: the intrinsic value that goes beyond the applause and external validation. He addresses the pressures of the craft, the impact of external measures, and provides practical exercises to help musicians discover and appreciate their worth.
Imagine the scene: a musician steps off the stage, the applause fades, and they're left with their thoughts. This episode delves into that intimate moment, questioning whether the applause is the only measure of success. Jean Paul argues that it's not – that our worth extends far beyond these fleeting moments of external recognition.
Listeners are invited to explore self-reflection practices, setting intrinsic goals, embracing imperfection, and discerning feedback. The episode emphasises the importance of mindfulness and self-compassion in building emotional resilience. This is not just about becoming better musicians but about becoming more fulfilled individuals.
Whether you're a seasoned performer or a student just starting, this episode speaks to the core of why we make music. It's a reminder that every note played, every piece perfected, and every performance given contributes to a larger symphony of our existence.
So, if you're ready to embark on a journey of beautiful self-discovery and find solace in the understanding that your value extends far beyond the applause or criticism, then this episode is for you. Tune in and let the notes of self-worth resonate from within, turning external measures into harmonious echoes rather than defining chords.
Remember, your musical journey is unique, and your contribution to the world of music is invaluable. Let this episode be the start of a new chapter in your life, one where you play the melody of self-worth with confidence and joy. Listen now and transform the way you perceive your place in the world of music.
'Talking Flutes', 'Talking Flutes Extra' and 'Bitesize' are podcast productions by the TJ flute company. For more information visit www.tjflutes.comÂ
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Monday Mar 11, 2024
Into The Beyond! E: 303 with Dr Mary Matthews & Nicole Chamberlain
Monday Mar 11, 2024
Monday Mar 11, 2024
Spicing up your relationship with the flute!
Extended techniques expand the palette of flute learning and playing.
"The benefits of using extended techniques to improve your flute playing
This week on 'Talking Flutes' Jean-Paul speaks with Dr Mary Matthews and Nicole Chamberlain about their latest publication 'Into The Beyond', a method book for flutists looking to develop their extended techniques such as beatboxing, jet whistles, singing and playing, multiphonics, which is a follow on tutor book from their first highly successful method flute book 'Beatboxing & Beyond'.
Check out these fabulous flute methods books via your favourite flute store.
'Talking Flutes', 'Talking Flutes Extra' and 'Bitesize' are podcast productions by the TJ flute company. For more information visit https://tjflutes.comÂ
Monday Mar 04, 2024
Monday Mar 04, 2024
How to break free from the shackles of comparison!
In the intricate tapestry of musical expression, the quest to be true to oneself often encounters a formidable obstacle—comparison. The impulse to measure one's musical journey against others can hinder creativity, stifle growth, and erode the joy of making music. In this short podcast recorded on the banks of a stream in the north of England on a cold day in March, Jean-Paul delves into the critical importance of freeing ourselves from self-limiting factors, particularly the pervasive influence of comparison.
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'Talking Flutes', 'Talking Flutes Extra' and 'Bitesize' are podcast productions by the TJ flute company. For more information visit www.tjflutes.comÂ
Monday Feb 26, 2024
Monday Feb 26, 2024
Transformative Notes from Death Row!
In Talking Flutes Extra podcast this week Jean-Paul has a fascinating discussion with musician, composer, flute player and activist Elsa Nilsson.
We start with the power of improvisation. The podcast then moves on to a composition using the voice of 'Maya Angelou' with 'The Band of Pulses' and we end with the story, voice and music of Keith LaMar, currently fighting his innocence from Death Row where he has an execution date set for 13th January 2027. Â
https://www.elsanilssonmusic.com
'Talking Flutes', Talking Flutes Extra' and 'Bitesize' are podcast productions by the TJ flute company. For more information visit www.tjflutes.com
Monday Feb 19, 2024
Unveiling the Secrets Behind Our 300th Flute Podcast Episode!
Monday Feb 19, 2024
Monday Feb 19, 2024
Gosh we made it!
Join us as we celebrate our 300th episode of Talking Flutes!
In this special podcast, we'll reveal the secrets behind our success and share some behind-the-scenes stories from our journey as flutists and podcasters. Whether you're a flute player, a musician, or just a fan of podcasts, you won't want to miss this episode!
When we began the Talking Flutes podcast over 6 years ago, we initially had a target of getting to 10 pods and then see what the reaction was. After all, talking about flutes each week was potentially limiting in how many subjects within the flute sphere we thought we could think about. When we reached 52 podcasts a year later we set a new target of 100 and the we'd stop!
Well "Ahem" (he clears his throat) we have finally hit 300 and are still going 😊 During these 300 Talking Flutes podcasts we have spoken to some of the finest flute players in the world, from Sir James & Lady Jeanne Galway, Jasmine Choi, Paul Edmund Davies, Wissam Boustany, Gareth Davies, Greg Pattillo and the list of names goes on and on. Ultimately we have to thank our Talking Flutes podcast audience who have continued to send in questions and subject matter for us to talk about. Without our wonderful listeners we would have stopped long ago! Thank you all so much for continuing to listen each week!
'Talking Flutes', Talking Flutes Extra' and 'Bitesize' are podcast productions by the TJ flute company. For more information visit www.tjflutes.comÂ
Monday Feb 12, 2024
Taming The Musical Control Freak! E: 299 with Jean-Paul Wright
Monday Feb 12, 2024
Monday Feb 12, 2024
Taming the Musical Control Freak: Unleashing Creativity and Achieving Musical Excellence!
As we all know, music, a universal language that transcends boundaries and stirs the soul, has the power to evoke emotions, inspire creativity, and connect us on a deep level. For many musicians, even if you don’t do if professionally, it becomes a lifelong passion, demanding dedication, practice, and a relentless pursuit of excellence.
However, in this pursuit of musical perfection, which if we take a step back for a moment… we’ll know that perfectionism doesn’t exist due largely to us being at the behest of audience and teacher judgement and validation, yet even though we know deep down that finding genuine perfection isn’t possible, some of us may still find ourselves trapped in the clutches of perfectionism which may lead to the occasional transformation into a musical control freak. This mindset manifests in various ways, often fuelled by an underlying fear of making mistakes or falling short of one's own demanding standards.
In this Bitesize podcast, Jean-Paul asks the question "So what is The Musical Control Freak" and then discusses why some of us have the simple desire for perfection!
At the heart of the musical control freak lies an unwavering quest for total precision, flawless tone and perfect interpretation.  To some high achieving performers this drive may be how they believe they function best, however for the majority of flute players, these expectations can prevent us from ever being truly happy with what we do. Â
'Talking Flutes', 'Talking Flutes Extra' and 'Bitesize' are podcast productions by the TJ flute company. For more information visit www.tjflutes.comÂ
Monday Feb 05, 2024
Deep Thoughts From A Flute Nerd! Episode 298 Dr Keith Hanlon
Monday Feb 05, 2024
Monday Feb 05, 2024
To make the contrabass sound when you want you sometimes have to hit the notes two measures away 😂
This week at a very noisy NAMM Show, the worlds biggest musical instrument and technology show in Anaheim, California, Jean-Paul speaks with flute player, educator, repairer, maker and self confessed flute nerd Dr Keith Hanlon about 'The Flute Examiner' free resource for all flute players along with talking piccolo making, flute playing and his love for the contrabass flutes.
You can find out more about the flute examiner website https://thefluteexaminer.com
'Talking Flutes', 'Talking Flutes Extra' and 'Bitesize' are podcast productions by the TJ flute company. For more information visit www.tjflutes.com
Monday Jan 29, 2024
Teachers, Hobbies & Mentorship! E: 297 with Clare Southworth
Monday Jan 29, 2024
Monday Jan 29, 2024
"Failure is feedback - feedback is knowledge - knowledge is power!"
This week Clare is talking about the role of teachers, hobbies and mentorship.
Listen to the complete 8 minute podcast and you'll hear Clare (retired Flute Professor at the prestigious Royal Academy of Music in London) making you a wonderful offer!!
'Talking Flutes', Talking Flutes Extra' and 'Bitesize' are podcast productions by the TJ flute company. For more information visit www.tjflutes.comÂ
Monday Jan 22, 2024
Debunking The Myth Of Mindfulness! E:296 with Jean-Paul Wright
Monday Jan 22, 2024
Monday Jan 22, 2024
Welcome to an exploration into the profound world of mindfulness. This practice, celebrated as a remedy for the strains of our modern lives, has gained significant popularity. But, as musicians, it's crucial to scrutinise the claims surrounding mindfulness and discern how it seamlessly intertwines with our musical journeys. In this Talking Flutes 'Bitesize' podcast, we embark on a quest to demystify the lore of mindfulness, unravelling its genuine benefits, delving into potential misconceptions, and understanding its limitations. Through a deeper comprehension, we aim to unlock its true potential for personal growth and well-being in the realm of music.
'Talking Flutes', 'Talking Flutes Extra' and 'Bitesize' are podcast productions by the TJ flute company. For more information visit www.tjflutes.comÂ
Monday Jan 15, 2024
Monday Jan 15, 2024
"Tension and release draws the audience in and unlocks the narrative of the piece you're playing..."
This week on 'Talking Flutes Extra' Jean-Paul speaks with the fabulous musician, flute player, composer and educator Hadar Noiberg.
During this nearly hr long podcast they cover so many areas of performance and practice from 'Finding your authentic flute voice' through to the need to "open your heart and thoughts to different genres. Do that and your sound and colours in your musical world will come alive".
You can find out more about Hadar Noiberg at www.hadarnoiberg.comÂ
'Talking Flutes', 'Talking Flutes Extra' and 'Bitesize' are podcast productions by the TJ flute company. For more information visit www.tjflutes.comÂ
Monday Jan 08, 2024
Monday Jan 08, 2024
The joy of being a flute player!
Being a flute player is a journey filled with joy, self-expression, and personal growth. As musicians, we embark on a unique path that allows us to create beautiful melodies and connect with the world through our music. However, the joy of being a flute player can sometimes be overshadowed by self-doubt and the temptation to compare ourselves to others.
In this bitesized Talking Flutes podcast, we will explore the immense joy of being a flute player, the significance of embracing our individuality, and the detrimental impact of comparison. By understanding the value of our unique musical voice, we can nurture our passion for the flute and cultivate a lifelong love for the instrument.
'Talking Flutes', 'Talking Flutes Extra' and 'Bitesize' are podcast productions by the TJ flute company. For more information visit www.tjflutes.comÂ
Monday Jan 01, 2024
Monday Jan 01, 2024
Take action! DO NOT simply have plans and dreams! Â
As a musician it's vitally important that we are specific when we're setting new goals and intentions for our flute playing. Having ideas and dreams remain just 'ideas & dreams' unless you 'Take Action'!Â
This week on our 7th Annual New Year episode, Jean-Paul is summoned (with a post NY eve party headache) down to Clare's family home to record an on-the-day pod. Jean-Paul asks why anybody is still listening after 292 podcasts spread over nearly 7 years whilst Clare speaks about the impact and input that our lovely listeners continue to make!
'Talking Flutes', 'Talking Flutes Extra' and 'Bitesize' are podcast productions by the TJ flute company. For more information visit www.tjflutes.comÂ
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Monday Dec 18, 2023
Monday Dec 18, 2023
How much should I practice over the festive period?
In this 7th Festive episode (Podcast #292), gosh this is actually the 7th annual Christmas Talking Flutes podcast that we've made, Jean-Paul and Clare cover some of the flute playing questions that you've sent in. They also speak about what they will be doing over the festive period, including the obligatory jigsaw.
The opening and closing 'Jingle Bells' track is played by the brilliant Barry Griffths aka Grizzlyflute on social media.
Wishing you a very Merry Christmas and we look forward to being back with our next podcast on New Year's Day.
'Talking Flutes', 'Talking Flutes Extra' and 'Bitesize' are podcast productions by the TJ flute company. For more information visit www.tjflutes.comÂ
Monday Dec 11, 2023
Are you an over thinker? Podcast 291 with Jean-Paul Wright
Monday Dec 11, 2023
Monday Dec 11, 2023
The pitfalls and solutions to over thinking!
As musicians, it really easy to fall in to the trap of setting up a recursive loop pattern of over thinking. It could be about a difficult piece or passage that is causing us issues, a past performance or something that's happening in our lives outside of music, which is then having a major impact on it!
In this short podcast, which includes a short creative visualisation, Jean-Paul looks at what we can do to break the thinking chain to enable us to be free as musicians.
'Talking Flutes', 'Talking Flutes Extra' and 'Bitesize' are podcast productions by the TJ flute company. For more information visit www.tjflutes.comÂ
Monday Dec 04, 2023
Monday Dec 04, 2023
Revamp your flute journey by diving into the latest episode of "Talking Flutes" with Jean-Paul and Clare down in Hove (south of England), unraveling the many mysteries of setting up your very own flute studio. Join the conversation with them both as they tackle more intriguing questions from fellow enthusiasts.
Discover the liberating yet occasionally frustrating aspects of establishing your flute teaching practice. Uncover the secrets behind the invigorating experience of incorporating group lessons into your teaching repertoire. Plus the importance of pushing yourself to reach new heights with the instrument you have whilst always trying to be the best flute playing version of yourself.
"Talking Flutes," "Talking Flutes Extra," and "Bitesize," are captivating podcast productions by the TJ flute company. Elevate your flute expertise and explore more at www.tjflutes.com.Â
Monday Nov 27, 2023
Monday Nov 27, 2023
The importance of being in the moment!
Music has the remarkable ability to transcend time and space, inviting us to journey through emotions and stories crafted by composers. When a musician steps onto the stage, they become the conduit through which these emotions flow, seeking to communicate with their audience on a profound level. However, achieving this connection requires more than technical prowess. It demands a deep and unwavering link between the performer and the music, a connection that stretches beyond notes and rhythms.
In this bitesize pod, we’ll explore the significance of staying connected with the music when performing a piece, delving into the impact it has on both the performer and the listener. Through examples and practical exercises, we unravel the art of being present in the musical moment.
'Talking Flutes', 'Talking Flutes Extra' and 'Bitesize' are podcast productions by the TJ flute company. For more information visit www.tjflutes.comÂ
Monday Nov 20, 2023
Monday Nov 20, 2023
Is Josh the ultimate flute nerd?
This week Jean-Paul meets up with flute player and multi-instrumentalist Josh Johnson who has traded New York for London, to ask him flute questions that have been sent in by listeners.
1. Is there a G.O.A.T?
2. What makes a flute nerd?
3. What's the most special flute you've played?
4. Who are your five favourite flute players?
5. Why do people get upset with vibrato?
6. What are your favourite makers of piccolo, C flute, alto and bass?
7. Why should somebody attend a flute convention?
along with other related questions.
'Talking Flutes', 'Talking Flutes Extra' and 'Bitesize' are podcast productions by the TJ flute company. For more information visit www.tjflutes.comÂ
Monday Nov 13, 2023
Musical Liberation and Freedom! E:287 with Jean-Paul Wright
Monday Nov 13, 2023
Monday Nov 13, 2023
Don't listen if you're driving!!
This week is a very different podcast and one that whilst it has been requested quite a few times by listeners, we have been at a loss as to how to actually work it in.
You see, many of our listeners catch-up each week on their way to work in the car, train or walking. This podcast should not be listened to if you are driving or walking as we've succumbed!
This week we have a creative visualisation exercise on the subject of ‘Liberation & Empowerment’ which many of you will find easier if you are able to close your eyes.
So please switch the podcast off if you’re catching up whilst driving or walking and make sure you listen when you are able to sit down for 10 minutes.
Please take a moment to 'Like' and 'Rate' this podcast on whatever provider you are listening to this on. It really does help!
'Talking Flutes', 'Talking Flutes Extra' and 'Bitesize pods are podcast productions by the TJ flute company. For more information visit www.tjflutes.comÂ
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Monday Nov 06, 2023
Monday Nov 06, 2023
"Don't be stuck to the music stand!"
This week on Talking Flutes Clare speaks once again with the fabulous Elizabeth Walker about finger technique. Amongst many important topics, they explore why technique is only as good as your sound, correct hand positioning, discuss open vs closed holes and speak about the why controlled relaxation allows movement.
A really important and interesting pod which covers a large swathe of flute study questions that we often get asked!
Don't forget to follow us on Instagram and Facebook @talkingflutes and also send in any flute or performance related question to us at [email protected]Â
'Talking Flutes', 'Talking Flutes Extra' and 'Bitesize' are podcast productions by the TJ flute company. For more information visit www.tjflutes.com
Monday Oct 30, 2023
How to elevate your performance! Podcast 285 with Jean-Paul Wright
Monday Oct 30, 2023
Monday Oct 30, 2023
Exploring Tonal Colours & Expression!Â
Music is a universal language that transcends boundaries, evokes emotions, and communicates feelings that words often struggle to convey. At the heart of this communication lies the concepts of tonal colours and expression, essential elements for musicians to effectively communicate their musical narratives.
For flute players, mastering tonal colours and expression is not just a technical feat; it is a transformative journey that leads to profound musical interpretations and deeply resonant performances. This short bitesize pod delves into the significance of tonal colours and expression for flute players, examining how these aspects are created and harnessed to captivate audiences and convey emotions.
Please continue to rate and like our Talking Flutes podcast channel. After 6 years of these weekly pods we really do appreciate you showing your support this way â¤ï¸
'Talking Flutes', 'Talking Flutes Extra' and 'Bitesize' are podcast productions by the TJ flute company. For more information visit www.tjflutes.com
Monday Oct 23, 2023
Monday Oct 23, 2023
Why you should always ask for a fee and ignore the "It will be good for your profile line!"
This week on 'Talking Flutes', Clare and Jean-Paul are walking along a windy Brighton Beach in the south of England answering more questions from listeners.
Subjects such as:
1. Respecting yourself and your craft = asking for a fee!
2. Is it possible to become a good flute player if you start later in life?
3. What is the measure of a good musician?
4. How much flexibility do we have with a piece of music?
Six years and 284 podcasts later we still need you to rate and like 'Talking Flutes' on whatever podcast provider you are listening to this on. Thank you so much for being with us on this podcast journey.
'Talking Flutes', 'Talking Flutes Extra' and 'Bitesize' are podcast productions by the TJ flute company. For more information visit www.tjflutes.comÂ
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Monday Oct 16, 2023
Monday Oct 16, 2023
Nikolai Rimsky-Korsakov's 'Flight of the Bumblebee' stands as one of the most recognisable and enduring compositions in classical music.
This frenetic and virtuosic piece, originally part of his opera "The Tale of Tsar Saltan," has captured the imagination of both musicians and audiences for over a century. Its rapid tempo, intricate melodies, and technical demands showcase the composer's ingenuity while offering a captivating musical experience that transcends time and genre.
In this short podcast Jean-Paul briefly delves into the nuances of "Flight of the Bumblebee," exploring its historical context, musical structure, technical challenges, and enduring legacy.Â
'Talking Flutes', 'Talking Flutes Extra' and 'Bitesize' are podcast productions by the TJ flute company. For more information visit www.tjflutes.comÂ
Monday Oct 09, 2023
Monday Oct 09, 2023
Is honesty the best policy?
In Talking Flutes this week, Jean-Paul and Clare are sitting outside the coffee shop in the seaside town of Hove in Southern England answering more questions from listeners.
They look at 'False Expectations' and the role of teachers in guiding, the inclusion of popular music in a recital performance and ask the question "Can you tell if a young flute player has the X factor?"
'Talking Flutes', 'Talking Flutes Extra' and 'Bitesize' are podcast productions by the TJ flute company. For more information visit www.tjflutes.comÂ
Monday Oct 02, 2023
Monday Oct 02, 2023
How cultivating happiness improves performance and inspires change.
For musicians, the pursuit of excellence often takes centre stage, but equally important is the ability to find happiness in the musical journey. In this essay, we will explore strategies to cultivate happiness among musicians, enabling them to derive greater enjoyment from their performances. By understanding the link between happiness and musical expression, practicing mindfulness, nurturing well-being, and fostering a positive mindset, musicians can create a harmonious balance between technical mastery and emotional fulfilment.
This Bitesized pod with Jean-Paul Wright delves in to some of the areas which prevent us from being happy and appreciating our performance.
'Talking Flutes', 'Talking Flutes Extra' and 'Bitesize' are podcast productions by teh TJ flute company. For more information visit www.tjflutes.comÂ
Monday Sep 25, 2023
Monday Sep 25, 2023
Creative visualisation is a potent mental tool that allows individuals to harness the power of their imagination to achieve their goals and aspirations.
For musicians, this practice can be transformative, leading to enhanced performance, improved creativity, and heightened self-confidence. By engaging in guided visualisation techniques, musicians can tap into their inner potential and unleash their full musical capabilities.
In this Talking Flutes extra podcast, Jean-Paul explores the various ways in which creative visualisation can empower musicians and contribute to their artistic growth and success. At the end of this short pod, there is a 7 min creative visualisation exercise with accompanying soundscape for you to use to practice.
Please continue to send in your comments and suggestions for future podcasts to [email protected] or you can send them via our Facebook page and Instagram pages @talkingflutes
'Talking Flutes', 'Talking Flutes Extra' and 'Bitesize' are podcast productions by the TJ flute company. For more information visit www.tjflutes.comÂ
The 'Talking Flutes' Podcast Recipe
The ingredients are very simple.
Take a leading flute player, author, golfer and Professor at the Royal Academy of Music in London (Clare Southworth) and mix with flute player, Clinical Hypnotherapist, Public Speaker and Managing Director of the world famous TJ flute brand (Jean-Paul Wright).
Interviews with world leading flute players including Sir James Galway, Jasmine Choi, Denis Bouriakov, Paul Edmund-Davies, Gareth Davies (too many more beautiful flute playing guests to mention in a single paragraph), and gently mix these together with some Grammy and Emmy winning musicians.  Top with metal health awareness advice from Dr Joe Stammeijer and finish with some stunning music, laughs and plenty of fun.