Flute flutter tonguing is a blowing instrument tonguing technique in which performers flutter their tongue to make a characteristic “FrrrrFrrrr” sound. This is done by performing an isolated alveolar trill while playing the notes.

Notation: In sheet music, flute flutter tonguing is often abbreviated as “flt.” Or “flz.”, as it is also known as “Flatterzunge” (German). Flutter-tonguing is most often used on flutes, recorders, bassoons, trumpets and trombones. It can be used on both brass and woodwind instruments as well.

Function: Flute flutter tonguing is commonly used in jazz music to add the intensity, especially associated with New Orleans style. It is also called for in many classical pieces in the 20th century. In Richard Strauss’s tone poem Don Quixote, flutter tonguing dissonances are played softly on the horns to imitate the distant sound of bleating sheep.

So how to apply flutter tonguing on a flute?

I had a hard time to apply flute flutter tonguing when I learn to play the French Horn. I don’t get it even my friend did it to me. I spent almost one semester to learn to apply flutter tonguing. I almost want to give up. That’s why I hope you won’t waste the time like me. So there are some tips that I search from internet and quite useful for me. I suggest that you may need that.

1, Learn how to roll your R’s which is also called alveolar trill.
This technique is usually used in Spanish for the letter erre and comes easier than others. Don’t be upset if you don’t get it the first time. I spent half a year. You just have to learn to roll your R’s before you want to really flutter tongue.

2, Purse your lips in the correct flute embouchure and blow some air stream. You have to roll your R’s at a steady stream while keeping your lips and cheeks steady at the same time. It heard difficult. But some of my friends just get it. I couldn’t.

3, Listen to the sound of your flutter tonguing. It should should like “FrrFrr”.

4, When you get it, you may practice playing flutter tonguing on every note of your flute. It is harder to apply it for higher notes and lowest note at first. All you need is practice.

Note: Flutter tonguing is usually not suitable for classical literature. It is only be found on the contemporary classical pieces.