J.G. Tromlitz’s Articulatory Phonetics in Flute Sound Formation

Abstract

The paper considers articulatory phonetics and specific features of its use in flute performance. The historical stages presented of phonemic bases formation and development for flute articulation during the 16-18 centuries. Flute treatises by S. Ganassi, J.-M. Hotteterre, A. Mahaut, Ch. DeLusse, J. J. Quantz are considered in chronological order, as well as analysis of “Auführlicher und gründlicher Unterricht die Flöte zu spielen” by J. G. Tromlitz. Technological aspects are disclosed of using various phonemic structures outside the speech process to develop tongue motility and generate various types of tonguing while playing the flute. The role is identified of і and а vowels in modelling instrument phonation mechanism and their influence on sound tone and volume. The main elements are highlighted of speech and vocal types for flute articulation, as well as their differences. The vocalization significance is analysed in relation to tone development and the instrument sound uniformity in the lower and upper registers. The significance is disclosed of J. G. Tromlitz’s contribution to the flute articulation development and his innovative vocalization approaches to phonation technique.