How to play the DOUBLE flute

Introduction

Welcome to the world of the Double, a unique twin-chamber instrument designed to provide rich, stereo-like sound. The Double is like a double Nateyflute, with two flutes connected side by side. Each side has four fingerholes in the front and a thumbhole at the back, allowing you to play a pentatonic scale on both flutes simultaneously. The scale is Do, Re#, Fa, Sol, La#, Do2, providing a broad range of possibilities for melodies and harmonies. Let’s explore how to play the Double!

Step 1: Holding and Finger Placement

• The Double has two sides, left and right, each with its own set of fingerholes.
• Use your pinkies to cover the first (lowest) holes.
• Use your ring fingers to cover the second holes.
• Use your middle fingers to cover the third holes.
• Use your index fingers to cover the fourth (upper) holes.
• Use your thumbs to cover the thumbholes at the back.
• You can choose to play both flutes together or focus on one side for melodies while using the other for bass notes.

Step 2: Producing a Sound

• Blow gently into the small mouthpiece at the top, which divides the air between both flutes.
• Like the Natey, use a soft “T” articulation to start the note: “T…”. This creates a smooth, clear tone.

Step 3: Pentatonic Scale

• Each side of the Double plays a pentatonic scale: Do, Re#, Fa, Sol, La#, Do2.
• Lift your fingers sequentially from the bottom to the top, starting with the pinkies for the lowest hole, then the ring, middle, and index fingers for the upper holes.
• You can experiment by playing both sides simultaneously for harmony or using one side for bass notes while improvising melodies on the other side. You’ll notice the stereo effect when playing both sides together, as the air flows through both chambers to produce a full, harmonious sound.

Step 4: Finger Technique

• Follow a smooth sequence of finger movements for fluid transitions between notes.
• You can create rich harmonies by combining the tones of both flutes, giving the Double its characteristic stereo sound.

Step 5: Overblowing and Vessel Flute Characteristics

• The Double is a vessel flute, meaning it produces sound one octave lower than a comparable open flute, despite its compact size. This gives the Double a deep, resonant tone. Additionally, the Double cannot be overblown to reach a second octave, allowing you to control your breath and explore expressive playing without jumping octaves.

Step 6: Instrument Characteristics

• Playing the Double offers a versatile experience. You can focus on deep, bass-like sounds from one flute while creating melodies on the other. Alternatively, playing both sides together provides a stereo-like, harmonious effect that adds depth to your music.

Step 7: Playing on the Head

• Like the Innato, the Double can also be played on someone’s head, allowing the sound to resonate through their skull via bone conduction. Make sure to explain the process to the participant and ensure they are comfortable. Observe their breathing and body language for cues, creating an intimate, immersive experience where their head becomes part of the Double’s sound chamber.

Final Note

The Double is a beautifully flexible instrument that offers a rich sonic experience. Whether you’re creating harmonies by playing both sides together or focusing on bass and melody separately, the Double gives you endless creative possibilities. It’s perfect for experimenting with sound and rhythm, and with its compact size, you can take it anywhere.

Pick up the Double, let your creativity flow, and enjoy the immersive soundscapes you can create!