PRO Courses Hot Guides Tech Help Pro Expert Videos About wikiHow Pro Upgrade
QUIZZES All Quizzes Hot Love Quizzes Personality Quizzes Trivia Quizzes Taylor Swift Quizzes
EDIT Edit this Article
EXPLORE Tech Help ProAbout UsRandom ArticleQuizzes Request a New ArticleCommunity DashboardTrendingForums Arts and EntertainmentArtworkBooksMoviesComputers and ElectronicsComputersPhone SkillsTechnology HacksHealthMen's HealthMental HealthWomen's HealthRelationshipsDatingLoveRelationship Issues Hobbies and CraftsCraftsDrawingGamesEducation & CommunicationCommunication SkillsPersonal DevelopmentStudyingPersonal Care and StyleFashionHair CarePersonal Hygiene Quizzes Love Quizzes Personality Quizzes Fun Games Arts and EntertainmentFinance and BusinessHome and GardenRelationship Quizzes Cars & Other VehiclesFood and EntertainingPersonal Care and StyleSports and Fitness Computers and ElectronicsHealthPets and AnimalsTravel Education & CommunicationHobbies and CraftsPhilosophy and ReligionWork World Family LifeHolidays and TraditionsRelationshipsYouth
LOG IN
Log in
Social login does not work in incognito and private browsers. Please log in with your username or email to continue. FacebookGooglewikiHow Account No account yet? Create an account
RANDOM
Home
Random
Browse Articles
TrendingNew
Quizzes & Games
All QuizzesHot
Love Quizzes
Personality Quizzes
Fun Games
Dating Simulator
Learn Something New
Forums
Courses
Happiness Hub
Explore More
Support wikiHow
About wikiHow
Log in / Sign up
Terms of Use wikiHow is where trusted research and expert knowledge come together. Learn why people trust wikiHow
Categories
Arts and Entertainment
Music
Musical Instruments
Woodwind Instruments
Flute
How to Blow Into a Flute Download Article Co-authored by Jennifer Slaughter
Last Updated: February 19, 2026 References
Download Article
Holding Your Flute
|
Shaping Your Mouth Correctly
|
Expert Interview
|
Q&A
|
Tips
|Show more|Show less X
This article was co-authored by Jennifer Slaughter. Jennifer Slaughter is a Professional Flutist and Flute Instructor based in Spokane, WA. With over 15 years of experience, she is dedicated to sharing and teaching music with aspiring flutists. Jennifer is the founder of Jennifer Slaughter Flute Studio and provides online and in-person lessons to all ages. She also plays flute in the Spokane Symphony. This article has been viewed 91,314 times.
Playing the flute can be both rewarding for you and entertaining for others, but only if you produce a pleasing sound! Knowing a little about how to hold your flute, how to shape your mouth while playing, and how to use your breath will make playing your flute as fun and satisfying as possible.
Steps
Part 1 Part 1 of 2:
Holding Your Flute
Download Article
1 Remove the head joint from the rest of the flute. Your flute may disassemble, in which case you should use only the head joint (the end piece you blow into). Don't worry if your flute is one piece though, you can still practice comfortably with a full flute by simply leaving your fingers off of the holes.[1]XResearch source
2 Raise the flute to your lips from the direction of your chin. Bring the flute toward your mouth, from beneath it, with the holes facing up and the keys (or where the keys would be if you removed the head joint) on your right side.
Hold the flute horizontally and to your right[2]X Expert Source Jennifer SlaughterFlute ExpertExpert Interview .
The hole you blow into should be facing upward.
If you are practicing with a full flute, hold it with your left hand closest to your mouth, the palm facing you, and your right hand on the farther part of the flute with your palm facing out. Balance the flute using both hands without covering any of the holes or pressing any keys.
Advertisement
3 Position the flute below your mouth. The lip plate should rest gently in the place where your lip and chin meet[3]X Expert Source Jennifer SlaughterFlute ExpertExpert Interview . This will leave your bottom lip covering part of the hole in the flute, but be sure it is not too much, as you still need enough space to push your breath through the top and bottom of the opposite edge.[4]XResearch source
Advertisement Part 2 Part 2 of 2:
Shaping Your Mouth Correctly
Download Article
1 Press the corners of your mouth together, leaving an oval shaped hole. Without changing the position of your bottom lip, press the sides of your mouth together, leaving a small hole in the center through which you will blow over your flute.[5]XResearch source
It may be difficult to purse your lips without moving your bottom lip, feel free to readjust your flute after positioning your lips.
The opening between your lips should be centered over the hole in your flute, even if the opening is not directly in the center of your mouth.[6]XResearch source
2 Extend your top lip slightly past your bottom lip. You will blow down yet over the flute using your top lip to control the direction of your breath. [7]XResearch source [8]X Expert Source Jennifer SlaughterFlute ExpertExpert Interview
3 Blow into your flute just as you would blow to whistle. You won't really blow into the hole, but over the edge of the hole through pursed lips using steady pressure. Hopefully, this will produce a clear note on your first attempt, but do not become discouraged if it doesn't. Simply pay attention to what sounds best and try to replicate what you were doing when you made a pleasing sound.
4 Experiment with your mouth shape and breath. Making small adjustments to the angle of your lips and the direction and pressure of your breath can significantly improve the tone and quality of the note you produce. You are looking for a clear, sustainable, and steady tone.[9]XResearch source
Focus the stream of air you exhale first on one corner of the hole, then the other. Listen to the sound and remember where you were blowing when the note was most clear.[10]XResearch source
Try breathing more softly or with more force. Pay attention to what sounds best and try to use the same amount of pressure as you continue practicing.
Rotate your flute very slightly while blowing (and listening) to ensure your bottom lip is not covering too much of the hole.
Advertisement
Community Q&A
Search Add New Question
Question I have to play the flute for our school band, but I have braces, will I still be able to play it? Community Answer Yes. Playing the flute has more to do with the shape you make with your lips, the amount of air blown and direction of the air blowing (a.k.a. embouchure), and braces won't affect tone production at all. Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.Thank you for your feedback. If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow Yes No Not Helpful 10 Helpful 31
Question I can't seem to find the exact location to get a good tone. How can I fix this? Daidra Thomander Community Answer Keep trying, and when you do find a good lip posture, blow long tones to fix it into muscle memory. Remember, the lower the note, the more relaxed your lips are. The higher the note, the more tightened they are. Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.Thank you for your feedback. If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow Yes No Not Helpful 22 Helpful 34
Question After I take the flute away from my mouth, I find a little bit of condensation on the other side of the hole, like fog on a mirror. Is this supposed to be there, and if not, how can I fix it? FlowerPower 💖 Community Answer Condensation is normal after playing the flute, though it's best to clean it after practicing. Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.Thank you for your feedback. If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow Yes No Not Helpful 9 Helpful 17
See more answers Ask a Question 200 characters left Include your email address to get a message when this question is answered. Submit Advertisement
Reader Videos
Tips
You may not make pleasing sounds when you first begin: Don't give up! Practice is sure to improve your flute playing. Thanks Helpful 8 Not Helpful 2
One way to check to see that your mouth is shaped correctly is to see if your lips are in the same position as they are when you form the word too. Thanks Helpful 9 Not Helpful 3
You can practice blowing into a plastic or glass bottle or use a mirror to ensure you are holding your mouth correctly. Thanks Helpful 5 Not Helpful 3
Submit a Tip All tip submissions are carefully reviewed before being published Name Please provide your name and last initial Submit Thanks for submitting a tip for review! Advertisement
You Might Also Like
How to Play the Flute (With Expert Tips)How to Play a Wooden Flute: Proper Grip, Sound Production & MoreHow toPlay American Indian FluteHow toHit the Lower Notes on a FluteHow to Hold a Flute & Avoid Starting Bad HabitsHow toPlay the FifeHow toPlay the Panpipe or Pan FluteHow toBlow into a TrumpetHow toBlow Into a SaxophoneHow toWhistle With Your TongueHow toAssemble a FluteHow toPlay the French HornHow toPlay the OboeHow toMake a Correct Clarinet Embouchure Advertisement
Expert Interview
Thanks for reading our article! If you’d like to learn more about playing the flute, check out our in-depth interview with Jennifer Slaughter.
References
↑ http://www.markshep.com/flute/Sound.html
↑ Jennifer Slaughter. Flute Expert. Expert Interview
↑ Jennifer Slaughter. Flute Expert. Expert Interview
Co-authored by: Jennifer Slaughter Flute Expert This article was co-authored by Jennifer Slaughter. Jennifer Slaughter is a Professional Flutist and Flute Instructor based in Spokane, WA. With over 15 years of experience, she is dedicated to sharing and teaching music with aspiring flutists. Jennifer is the founder of Jennifer Slaughter Flute Studio and provides online and in-person lessons to all ages. She also plays flute in the Spokane Symphony. This article has been viewed 91,314 times. 9 votes - 89% Co-authors: 6Updated: February 19, 2026 Views: 91,314 Categories: FluteArticle SummaryX
To blow into a flute, first, hold the flute slightly under your lips with the holes facing up and the keys on your right side. Make sure the lip plate rests gently where your lip and chin meet so your bottom lip is only covering part of the hole. Once your flute is in place, press the sides of your mouth together without changing the position of your bottom lip, turning your mouth into an oval. From there, extend your top lip slightly past your bottom lip to direct your breath downward over the flute. Then, blow over the edge of the flute hole through your pursed lips with steady pressure. Don’t get discouraged if you don’t get a clear note on your first try. Keep trying and you’ll eventually get it! For more tips, like how to adjust your lips to get different sounds, read on.Did this summary help you?YesNo
In other languagesJapanese
Print
Send fan mail to authors
Thanks to all authors for creating a page that has been read 91,314 times.
Reader Success Stories
Karlos Muoz
Mar 17, 2022
"I use wikiHow for everything. Incredible useful and to-the-point information. A must for anyone.The advice given here for flutes as well as for my preferred Pan flute is invaluable. Thank you so much for sharing and guiding us with this knowledge."..." more
More reader stories Hide reader stories Share your story
Did this article help you?
Yes No Advertisement Cookies make wikiHow better. By continuing to use our site, you agree to our cookie policy. Co-authored by: Jennifer Slaughter Flute Expert Co-authors: 6Updated: February 19, 2026 Views: 91,31489% of readers found this article helpful. 9 votes - 89% Click a star to add your vote
Karlos Muoz
Mar 17, 2022
"I use wikiHow for everything. Incredible useful and to-the-point information. A must for anyone.The advice given here for flutes as well as for my preferred Pan flute is invaluable. Thank you so much for sharing and guiding us with this knowledge."..." more
Gabriel W.
Sep 3, 2024
"Well, I just joined the middle school band, and I got a flute from my great-grandma. I have no clue how to use it, but this website has helped me a lot. Now I know how to actually make a nice note!!! Thanks a bunch!!"..." more
Anonymous
Jun 22, 2023
"When I decided to get a flute, the first place I came to learn was here, and it helped a lot with the way I'm supposed to play it. Thanks a lot!"..." more
Damien Bemma
Mar 6, 2019
"I have been struggling to play a pleasant sound. Your tips have helped me get one step closer to playing the flute." Share yours! More success stories Hide success stories
Quizzes & Games
Am I a Good Kisser QuizTake QuizWhat Instrument Should I Play QuizTake QuizMusic Notes & Symbols TestTake QuizAm I Good at Flirting QuizTake QuizWhat Is My Face Shape QuizTake QuizWhat Makeup Should I Wear QuizTake Quiz
You Might Also Like
How to Play the Flute (With Expert Tips)How to Play a Wooden Flute: Proper Grip, Sound Production & MoreHow toPlay American Indian FluteHow toHit the Lower Notes on a Flute
Trending Articles
How Rare Is Your Name?The Different Kinds of Dimples: Types, Causes, & Social Perception151 of the Juiciest “Most Likely To” Questions to AskSigns a Woman is Sexually Attracted to YouHow toTell That Your Crush Likes You BackCat Sleeping Positions: 22 Common Poses Explained
Watch Articles
How toCalculate the Volume of a PyramidThe Best Way to Exfoliate Your Scalp (Plus, What to Use)How toSave Money as a KidHow toPolish Aluminum2 Easy Renter-Friendly Options to Hang Your Window TreatmentsHow to Insert Slide Numbers in PowerPoint
Trending Articles
Are You Unc? Discover How Old Your Vibe IsWhat's My Hottest Feature QuizGen Beta Slang Quiz24 Different Types of Bras ExplainedHow to Play the Concentrate Game (For A Little Scare!)What Does Your Rice Purity Score Really Mean?
Quizzes & Games
How Awkward Am I QuizTake QuizThe Impossible QuizTake QuizWhat Is My Makeup Type QuizTake QuizMakeup Quiz: Discover The Perfect Stye For YouTake QuizWhat Age Is My Brain QuizTake QuizAm I Funny QuizTake Quiz
Categories
Arts and Entertainment
Music
Musical Instruments
Woodwind Instruments
Flute
wikiHow Newsletter You're all set! Helpful how-tos delivered toyour inbox every week! Sign me up! By signing up you are agreeing to receive emails according to our privacy policy.
Download Article Co-authored by Jennifer Slaughter 
Advertisement 
Co-authored by: Jennifer Slaughter Flute Expert This article was co-authored by Jennifer Slaughter. Jennifer Slaughter is a Professional Flutist and Flute Instructor based in Spokane, WA. With over 15 years of experience, she is dedicated to sharing and teaching music with aspiring flutists. Jennifer is the founder of Jennifer Slaughter Flute Studio and provides online and in-person lessons to all ages. She also plays flute in the Spokane Symphony. This article has been viewed 91,314 times. 9 votes - 89% Co-authors: 6 Updated: February 19, 2026 Views: 91,314 Categories: Flute Article SummaryX
Take Quiz
Take Quiz
Take Quiz
Take Quiz
Take Quiz
Take Quiz 
Take Quiz
Take Quiz
Take Quiz
Take Quiz
Take Quiz
Take Quiz 
586 
1 Remove the head joint from the rest of the flute. Your flute may disassemble, in which case you should use only the head joint (the end piece you blow into). Don't worry if your flute is one piece though, you can still practice comfortably with a full flute by simply leaving your fingers off of the holes.[1] 
2 Raise the flute to your lips from the direction of your chin. Bring the flute toward your mouth, from beneath it, with the holes facing up and the keys (or where the keys would be if you removed the head joint) on your right side. 
3 Position the flute below your mouth. The lip plate should rest gently in the place where your lip and chin meet[3] . This will leave your bottom lip covering part of the hole in the flute, but be sure it is not too much, as you still need enough space to push your breath through the top and bottom of the opposite edge.[4] Advertisement 
1 Press the corners of your mouth together, leaving an oval shaped hole. Without changing the position of your bottom lip, press the sides of your mouth together, leaving a small hole in the center through which you will blow over your flute.[5] 
2 Extend your top lip slightly past your bottom lip. You will blow down yet over the flute using your top lip to control the direction of your breath. [7] [8] 
3 Blow into your flute just as you would blow to whistle. You won't really blow into the hole, but over the edge of the hole through pursed lips using steady pressure. Hopefully, this will produce a clear note on your first attempt, but do not become discouraged if it doesn't. Simply pay attention to what sounds best and try to replicate what you were doing when you made a pleasing sound. 
4 Experiment with your mouth shape and breath. Making small adjustments to the angle of your lips and the direction and pressure of your breath can significantly improve the tone and quality of the note you produce. You are looking for a clear, sustainable, and steady tone.[9] 
Community Answer Yes. Playing the flute has more to do with the shape you make with your lips, the amount of air blown and direction of the air blowing (a.k.a. embouchure), and braces won't affect tone production at all. Thanks! We're glad this was helpful. Thank you for your feedback. If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow Yes No Not Helpful 10 Helpful 31 
Daidra Thomander Community Answer Keep trying, and when you do find a good lip posture, blow long tones to fix it into muscle memory. Remember, the lower the note, the more relaxed your lips are. The higher the note, the more tightened they are. Thanks! We're glad this was helpful. Thank you for your feedback. If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow Yes No Not Helpful 22 Helpful 34 
FlowerPower 💖 Community Answer Condensation is normal after playing the flute, though it's best to clean it after practicing. Thanks! We're glad this was helpful. Thank you for your feedback. If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow Yes No Not Helpful 9 Helpful 17 
Advertisement Cookies make wikiHow better. By continuing to use our site, you agree to our cookie policy.