"The new edition of the Complete
Guide to the Flute and Piccolo by J. James Phelan is a extraordinary
book – a compendium of essential information every flutist will want to
own!"
Jeannie Baxtresser, past principal flute, New York Philharmonic
"This well-researched, easy-to-read guide to basic design and
maintenance of the flute and piccolo should be a part of every flutist’s
library. An indispensable resource, Jim Phelan’s revised second edition,
with numerous contributions from Lillian Burkart, includes quotes from
historical flute makers such as Quantz and Boehm, and modern sources
such as Verne Q Powell and Albert Cooper. Phelan’s use of scientific
terminology is clear and accessible for performers and teachers alike."
Mary Karen Clardy, Professor of Flute, University of North Texas
"For years the care and repair of the piccolo has not been taken
seriously by teachers or repairmen, usually because no one knew quite
what to do. But now, finally, with Jim Phelan’s Complete Guide, everyone
has a chance to make the necessary adjustments. In a chapter devoted
completely to the piccolo, Jim talks about headjoints, tenons, materials
and all the aspects of piccolo acoustics. It is the most important book
yet for the understanding of the piccolo and how it works. We no longer
have to believe in Voodoo. Thanks, Jim, for a most important addition
to our knowledge and understanding. Artists can now find the same quality
in piccolos as we have come to expect and demand from flutes."
Jan Gippo, solo piccolo with the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra
" I read it with great interest and would not hesitate to recommend
it to flutists, especially to anyone interested in the workings of the
flute. To my knowledge, there is no other book like this one. Congratulations!"
Robert Langevin, principal flute, New York Philharmonic