John Kinyon's Basic Training Course, Book 2: Flute Book

Kinyon's Basic Training Course remains one of the most versatile method systems available because it works genuinely well in three different teaching contexts without sacrificing coherence or pedagogical integrity. The flute book respects the specific technical demands of the instrument while maintaining the unified pacing that makes it possible to teach a mixed ensemble from the same material.

Clear, straightforward, and encouraging. Kinyon's writing avoids unnecessary jumps in difficulty while maintaining musical integrity; students hear themselves playing recognizable melodic shapes that feel rewarding to execute. The progression feels logical and achievable, building confidence as technical demands expand gradually.

Flute students beginning their first or second year of instruction, whether they are learning privately, in a class setting with other flutists, or within a mixed beginning band. This book works equally well for students joining band mid-year or for supplemental study alongside group instruction.

• Use the recorded accompaniment to establish steady tempo and build ensemble confidence; students respond well to playing alongside the accompaniment from early lessons.
• Isolate technical passages by playing the flute line at half tempo, then gradually return to written speed as accuracy improves.
• Encourage consistent embouchure practice from the start; Kinyon's progression naturally reinforces proper air support and tone production.
• Mark breathing spots clearly in pencil during the first read-through so students develop the habit of planning breaths before encountering new material.

Use Book 2 as your standard curriculum text for second-year flute students, whether they are in a pull-out lesson format or advancing through band together. It pairs effectively with first-year instruction and prepares students for the transition to full band literature by establishing consistent reading skills, intonation awareness, and rhythmic precision.

• Reading sharps and flats in treble clef with confidence
• Producing steady tone across the full range of the instrument
• Interpreting articulation markings (staccato, legato, accent)
• Maintaining consistent breathing patterns in longer phrases
• Synchronizing rhythmic entries with ensemble accompaniment
• Executing intervals accurately without visual reference to fingering charts