Having problems with Flute as a Second instrument...?

Question:I'm a clarinetist and I picked up flute a few weeks ago. It's going great, the fingerings are clicking well, scales are fine, I'm starting to learn songs, but I get very lightheaded and dizzy when I play. Normally, I can play lightheaded for quite a while, and just get by with short breaks. I've been looking for an explaination, but all I get is helpful advice for first time flautists. My question is, Is the arm position making it a different breathing and I'll get used to it, or is there something I should be doing differently?

Thanks for any advice you have!

Best Answer - Chosen by Asker: I'm a clarinetist and I picked up flute a few weeks ago. It's going great, the fingerings are clicking well, scales are fine, I'm starting to learn songs, but I get very lightheaded and dizzy when I play. Normally, I can play lightheaded for quite a while, and just get by with short breaks. I've been looking for an explaination, but all I get is helpful advice for first time flautists. My question is, Is the arm position making it a different breathing and I'll get used to it, or is there something I should be doing differently?

Thanks for any advice you have!

Because there is no resistance to the flute like there is on reed or brass instruments, dizziness is a very common side effect for new players.

Clarinet is my principle instrument, and I feel your pain!!! We are so used to having the resistance provided by our instrument that the flute, which actually requires tones more air- at a higher speed- is difficult to pick up in this respect.

There's no cure for flute-induced dizziness and lightheadedness except short practice sessions and time.

when i played the flute our teacher had us breath through straws to help build our strength.
this site has instructions on how to do it...http://www.authentic-breathing.com/straw...
you will get used to the arm position after awhile, just make sure you sit up straight!
good luck.

the answer that becca gave sounds plausible but she played piano in hs so who knows what she is talking about , can't see how straws would help that ,her piano teacher would take her students to the outback restaurant for dinner every now and then too so i am sure her memories are clouded by that. i do think that learning good breathing technique will be of great help to you , good luck and i hope you have a life long interest in music !