Modal Flute Warmup: Sound Discovery and Color Palette Expansion

Do you want to discover color and emotion in your playing?

Is something missing in your practicing?

This is a warmup book based on modes for flutists (high school level and up) and their teachers that invites a sense of exploration and discovery, and sparks joy in the process.

Modal Flute Warmup has been selected for inclusion in the 2025 Selected Flute Repertoire and Studies Guide for The National Flute Association (NFA) Pedagogy Committee!!  “. . . it is an important contribution to the work of flutists who explore outside of the strictly tonal realm.”

Through six different types of exercises, all based on modes, this unique warmup book engages the flutist’s mind at every turn, encouraging and guiding them to explore and reflect on their playing. Lentz engages the flutist’s attention and imagination, encouraging awareness, curiosity, and creativity throughout the book. She guides readers to use the exercises in a way that mindfully nurtures reflection and guides the flutist to spend time absorbing information and receiving/analyzing feedback about how we play. She also invites flutists to explore how movement and awareness of both what we are doing and what we are thinking helps us connect more to our physical and musical expression. In addition, the use of modes engages the flutist’s attention and imagination, allowing an exploration of colors and tonalities they might not be familiar with—and simultaneously expanding technical flexibility with intervals and fingerings not common in tonal music—in a structured and imaginative way. It is an essential work for any flutist who finds themselves eager to explore a new warmup approach that invites a sense of discovery, and sparks joy in the process.

What flutists are saying:

“Laura gives us a fresh look at harmony and color with her new book. The exercises unfold like an impressionist introducing shades of light and lead a flutist through a kaleidoscope of modes as a framework for understanding emotional expression in sound.”
— Rebecca Gilbert, principal flutist of Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra

“In Modal Flute Warmup, Laura guides us thoughtfully through the creative process of awareness and discovery, with simple and beautifully written exercises for the body and musical mind. With warmups as our mantras, the use of modes and improvisation offers a fresh approach to a colorful sound. Her book is enlightening for the evolving and seasoned musician alike!”
— Joanna Bassett, Associate Dean at The Hochstein School; President, Rochester Flute Association

“I love this book!! The well-thought-out and clearly presented ideas and exercises are both enjoyable and inspiring. A very special and useful addition to every flutist’s library.”
— Camilla Hoitenga, Concert Artist

“Laura’s new flute book, Modal Flute Warmup, is a synthesis of her own approach to playing—that is to play every note with intention, artistry, and curiosity. This book is one we didn’t even know we needed, but so desperately need, because it invites student and veteran flutists alike to dare to play with freedom and curiosity. If you have been searching for a way to find your own unique musical voice on the flute, then this is the book for you.”
— Annette Farrington, flutist, faculty Nazareth University, Rochester, New York

“Modal Flute Warmup is an amazing resource for any flutist. The exercises provide thoughtful ways to expand your concept of tone, smooth your technique, and apply your musicality. The series of ‘Start to Discover’ passages preceding the warmup section offer ideas to help develop a physical and mental awareness in your playing, and the modal nature of the exercises allows you to practice patterns you may not normally see, as well as develop an ear for the small changes in music. This book supplies you with a comprehensive way to begin practicing, engaging a pensive consciousness of your playing.”
— Lilianna Fietkiewicz, Student Flutist

• Lentz, Laura

• Studies and Etudes

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