In flute playing, the system of opening and closing holes by the use of keys is called the Boehm system. This is named after Theobald Boehm who invented the system during the 19th century. If you are thinking of becoming a flautist here are some method books that will help jumpstart your flute playing. Books listed here are suitable for both child and adult and can be used to supplement whatever books are being used in music class. Some of the books are also good for adults who self-study.
1) Learn as You Play Flute: Tutor Book
This book covers finger and lip positioning, the proper way of holding a flute, music theory, exercises, scales, concert and duet pieces. The lessons progress nicely and there are diagrams and illustrations to guide you.
2) Abracadabra Flute: The Way to Learn Through Songs and Tunes
A step by step guide on learning to play the flute. Covers proper playing techniques, reading notes, exercises, music pieces and has illustrations to further help the student.
3) How to Love Your Flute
Written by Mark Shepard, this is a comprehensive guide to everything you need to know about the flute. It has chapters on flute history, selecting and caring for your flute, playing techniques, scales and chords, fingering charts, reading lists and more.
4) Beginner's Book For The Flute
Written by a teacher and a flautist, this method book is filled with great music pieces to learn, helpful lessons and illustrations.
5) The Boosey Woodwind Method Flute - Book 1
A thorough method books that covers the basics of flute playing and has music pieces in various styles and genres. Has an accompanying cd to play with and improvise.
6) Progressive Flute Method Book 1
It has 28 lessons covering the basics from assembling your flute to fingering and music pieces to play.
7) Team Woodwind Flute Tutor
Contains graded music pieces in various styles and genres, teaches improvisation, aural skills and more. There are also other books in the Team series for ensemble or band playing. Although not necessarily a method book, this book will suit beginning flautists who want ensemble experience.
8) A Tune a Day for Flute
Begins by teaching you how to assemble your flute and progresses to music theory and more.
9) Complete Flute Player Book 1
From assembling the flute to playing music pieces written by John Lennon, Paul McCartney and many more, this book will entertain the beginner flautist.
10) Play Flute Today Beginner's Pack
This is a book, cd and dvd pack that covers the basics of flute playing, suitable for the very beginner.