Description
Through six different types of exercises, all based on modes, this unique warmup book engages the flutist’s mind at every turn, encouraging and guiding them to explore and reflect on their playing.
Lentz engages the flutist’s attention and imagination, encouraging awareness, curiosity, and creativity throughout the book. She guides readers to use the exercises in a way that mindfully nurtures reflection and guides the flutist to spend time absorbing information and receiving/analyzing feedback about how we play.
She also invites flutists to explore how movement and awareness of both what we are doing and what we are thinking helps us connect more to our physical and musical expression.
In addition, the use of modes engages the flutist’s attention and imagination, allowing an exploration of colors and tonalities they might not be familiar with—and simultaneously expanding technical flexibility with intervals and fingerings not common in tonal music—in a structured and imaginative way.
It is an essential work for any flutist who finds themselves eager to explore a new warmup approach that invites a sense of discovery, and sparks joy in the process.
Amy Porter –
“Fantastic. Unlock that door and walk into the modal sunshine!”
-Amy Porter, Professor of Flute, University of Michigan
Joanna Bassett –
“In Modal Flute Warmup, Laura Lentz guides us thoughtfully through the creative process of awareness and discovery, with simple and beautifully written exercises for the body and musical mind. With warmups as our mantras, the use of modes and improvisation offers a fresh approach to a colorful sound. Her book is enlightening for the evolving and seasoned musician alike!”
Joanna Bassett, Associate Dean at the Hochstein School of Music, President Rochester Flute Association
Camilla Hoitenga –
“I love this book!! The well-thought-out and clearly presented ideas and exercises are both enjoyable and inspiring. A very special and useful addition to every flutist’s library.”
— Camilla Hoitenga, Concert Artist
Rebecca Gilbert –
“Laura gives us a fresh look at harmony and color with her new book. The exercises unfold like an impressionist introducing shades of light and lead a flutist through a kaleidoscope of modes as a framework for understanding emotional expression in sound.”
— Rebecca Gilbert, principal flutist of Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra
Lea Pearson –
“In Modal Flute Warmup Laura has done something extraordinary. She has infused a book about modes, which some might consider a strictly technical exercise, with love, passion, expression, history, harmony, improvisation, and the delicacy of embouchure and movement – essential tools for every flutist.”
— Lea Pearson, DMA, author
Kathleen Weidenfeller –
“Laura, THANK YOU for finding a way to create a book that encourages awareness and curiosity in practice. An essential work for any flutist who finds themselves disconnected from themselves in practice (as we all can from time to time!)”
— Kathleen Weidenfeller, DMA, flutist, educator, host of ’The Flute Suite’ podcast
Annette Farrington –
“Laura’s new flute book, Modal Flute Warmup, is a synthesis of her own approach to playing—that is to play every note with intention, artistry, and curiosity. This book is one we didn’t even know we needed, but so desperately need, because it invites student and veteran flutists alike to dare to play with freedom and curiosity. If you have been searching for a way to find your own unique musical voice on the flute, then this is the book for you.”
— Annette Farrington, flutist, faculty Nazareth University, Rochester, NY
Jennifer Kennard –
Modal Flute Warmup is an excellent addition to any flutist’s library and practice as it provides a warm-up model that both inspires and engages the player as they discover new aspects of their sound.”
— Jennifer Kennard, DMA, educator, NFA Special Publications Committee
Laura Pillman Patterson –
Modal Flute Warmup is a comprehensive method divided into two main sections: “Start to
Discover,” and “6-Part Modal Warmup.” “Start to Discover” includes reading, exercises, and
bibliographies on flute essentials such as body awareness, tone, expressive elements, and
more. “6-Part Modal Warmup” is a more traditional layout of technical exercises in each mode,
divided by root pitch. These noodly exercises are great for flutists who have mostly focused on
chromatic, major, and minor patterns. Some exercises switch between harmonics and normal
tone quality, building in embouchure exercise along with the technical. Lentz includes
instructions and inspiration throughout for flutists wanting to experiment with improvisation,
tying into the subheading of her publication: Sound Discovery and Color Palette Expansion.
Notably, the technical exercises are each preceded by sections called Exploration and Discovery
that encourage the flutist to consider their tone color, if they use any new fingering
combinations, experience any new emotions, and how they experience any improvisation.
Lentz includes handy staves at the end of each modal exercise to transcribe any favorite
improvisations or transcriptions the flutist wants to remember. This book is perfect for younger
and experienced players alike, and anyone who wants to refresh their technical routine!
Laura Pillman Patterson
Instructor, University of Alabama in Huntsville