A parents' guide to flute lessons for kids
Raising Musos Podcast — Flute Series, Episode 24
🎙️ Featuring Eliza Burgault & Jensen
At Music Makers Academy in Joondalup, we believe in making music education not only accessible but inspiring — and that’s exactly what this new podcast mini-series is all about. In this four-part series on the flute, we’re diving deep into what makes this beautiful instrument a great option for children (and adults!) to learn.
In this first episode, our director Eliza Burgault is joined by flute tutor and performer Jensen, who shares insights, tips, and personal experience to help parents navigate the journey of learning the flute.
Meet Jensen: From Clarinet to Flute (and Beyond)
Jensen began his musical journey with the clarinet in Year 4 and transitioned to flute in Year 10 — a decision fueled purely by his love for its higher, brighter tone. Now a dedicated flutist, he performs with the UWA Symphony Orchestra and the West Australian Youth Orchestra and also plays piccolo and alto flute.
What Parents Should Know Before Starting Flute Lessons
When to Start:
Jensen recommends starting flute lessons around ages 7–8 — when children are physically strong enough to hold the instrument and can focus for at least 20 minutes. Younger children might benefit from starting with recorder or piano first to build foundational skills.
What Happens in the First Lesson:
A child’s first flute lesson is all about comfort and basics — how to hold the flute, make their first sound, posture, hand placement, and care for the instrument. It’s an exciting introduction, not a pressure-filled performance!
Posture Matters:
One of the most important (and most overlooked) aspects of learning flute is posture. Poor posture can negatively affect tone, projection, and even lead to physical discomfort. A relaxed jaw, straight shoulders, and good hand positioning are key.
Flute Sizes and Variants
Students typically begin with a full-sized C flute, but younger learners may benefit from a curved headjoint to make the flute easier to manage. Jensen also gave us a peek into the world of alto, bass, and even contrabass flutes — ideal for advanced players and ensemble performance.
How Long Does It Take to Learn the Flute?
Jensen says it usually takes 1–2 years for students to become confident with tone production and basic songs — assuming they’re practicing regularly. Within just 2–3 months, most beginners can expect to start hearing a sound they’re proud of.
He also stressed the importance of continuing lessons, as playing flute involves fine motor skills and techniques that benefit from expert guidance. Trying to self-teach can lead to bad habits that are difficult to undo.
Is the Flute Beginner-Friendly?
The flute is lightweight, portable, and logical in finger layout, making it accessible to new learners. While certain techniques like breath control and posture take time to master, it’s a rewarding and versatile first instrument — for both kids and adults.
A Few Practical Considerations
Cost: Beginner flutes typically range from $700–$1,000.
Braces: Braces can make tone production trickier, but it's still possible to learn and play successfully.
Availability: Beginner and intermediate flutes are widely available in most music stores.
Reading Music: The flute uses only the treble clef, which can make music reading a bit simpler for some students.
The Joy of Ensemble Playing
Unlike solo-based instruments like piano or harp, flute players have many opportunities to join wind ensembles, orchestras, flute choirs, and even musicals. For students who thrive in collaborative environments, the flute opens the door to meaningful musical community.
Final Words from Jensen
“Don’t expect a beautiful sound right away,” Jensen reminds us. “But stick with it — most students start to produce a good tone after just a couple of months. The key is consistent practice and patience.”
Want to learn more about the flute or explore lessons at Music Makers Academy?
🎵 Visit musicmakersacademy.com.au or email us at hello@musicmakersacademy.com.au.
And don’t forget to tune into the next episode of our Raising Musos podcast where we’ll explore flute technique and skill development. Until then — keep making music!
