The alto flute transposition is not as hard as it seems. Curved head alto flutes were introduced relatively recently, but older alto flutes were straight. Despite the fact that curved heads are easier to play, the extra length makes them harder to play, especially for smaller players. Here are some tips to help you transition from a straight alto to a curved one. You may even be able to use a set of two curved altos to transpose one into another.
Contra-alto flute
The Contra-alto flute sits fourth below the bass flute in the range from G to F. Its original tuning was Bb, but more recent alto flutes have curved heads to accommodate smaller players. Changing the pitch of an alto flute from G to F presents several technical challenges, including a larger tube, mechanism modifications, and length changes. This transposition may not be possible for all alto flute players.
Bass flute
Unlike other wind instruments, bass flutes can be transposed up or down an octave. To transpose bass flute notes up, move them up one staff line on the keyboard and swap the bass clef for the treble clef. Transposing the bass flute this way means that the bass notes will sound two octaves higher. You will also need to adjust the height of the instrument.
Contra-contrabass flute
The contra-contrabass flute is an instrument that sits one octave below the bass flute. Its lowest note is C, the same as the lowest string on the cello. Contra-contrabass flute music is written in treble clef, so the instrument is not as easy to handle as a bass flute. Unlike a bass flute, which is made of wood, the contrabass flute has a metal tube and a spike to support the lower end.
Sub-contrabass flute
Alto flutes are relatively rare in orchestras because of their lack of volume and power. Moreover, bass flutes do not have a deep and resonant sound and are often substituted for contrabassoons or bass clarinets. To avoid these problems, the alto flutes have been transposed to the sub-contrabass position. Buttons on bass flutes are often connected to the keys of the alto flute.
C major scale on a G instrument
If you’ve ever played a C major scale on a G instrument, you know how difficult it can be. Playing it on an alto flute is a bit like learning to play a C major scale on a G instrument. You have to transpose the notes in order to play the scale on the instrument, and this can be difficult. Luckily, there are some methods you can use to practice playing the scale on an alto flute.
D major scale on a G instrument
In order to play the D major scale on a G instrument for an alto flute solo, you should know its note value. A D major scale on a G instrument is pitched at 430 hz. However, there is another way to play the scale. You need to learn the D major scale on a G instrument if you want to play a concerto on it.
Straight headjoint alto flute
When looking to purchase an alto flute, it is important to choose a headjoint that suits your playing style and needs. Many players prefer a straight headjoint for practice and performance purposes, while others may prefer the curvature for better intonation and feel. Ultimately, whichever type you choose, it is important to play both types of flutes to get the best sound and feel possible.
