Is there a flute playing G.O.A.T? Talking Flutes Episode 288 with Josh Johnson & Jean-Paul Wright

·1 hr 1 min·5 clips

Jean-Paul Wright meets social media influencer Josh Johnson in Hyde Park to discuss who listeners want back on the podcast.

In this episode of Talking Flutes Extra, host Jean-Paul Wright records while walking through Hyde Park in London with guest Josh Johnson, a multi-instrumentalist and social media influencer. The episode begins with Wright setting up the meeting and discussing podcast sponsors. Johnson talks about his photography and social media strategies, including how a viral photo of a flute key defied Instagram algorithms. The core of the episode revolves around listener-submitted questions. Johnson answers queries about the most special flute he's played, citing a Sankyo that made him believe he could play, and the most expensive, a 24K gold Sankyo valued around $150,000. He discusses notable flutes like John Lund's 18K gold flute now owned by Lizzo and a Louis Lot 'Frankenstein' flute. The conversation shifts to contemporary flute players to listen to, with mentions of Mihi Kim, Jasmine Choi, and Ulla Miilmann. Johnson debates whether there is a 'GOAT' (Greatest of All Time) in flute playing, concluding it's subjective but highlighting historical figures like Alain Marion and female players like Elaine Schaefer. He shares his top five flute players, placing Alain Marion first. Technical topics include vibrato, with Johnson viewing it as a tool that can become a crutch, and tuning practices. He explains how playing double-reed instruments like oboe and bassoon influences his flute sound, making it darker. Johnson advocates for consistent practice, even in small increments, and discusses the value of flute conventions like the NFA for networking and trying instruments. The episode concludes with recommendations for the best piccolos, alto flutes, and bass flutes, including Sankeo and Trevor James models, and Johnson's favorite piece of music, Rachmaninoff's Second Symphony.

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