Guide to Buying Your First Flute.

• You or your  child wants  to learn the flute. What do I need to get  started?

• Why a Standard / Student flute?

• What makes up a standard / student flute?

• Is there a difference between sounds among  flutes?

• Should I buy a new flute?

• Is buying a second hand flute an option?

• How do we look after the flute?

My child is starting to learn the flute this year. What do I need to get them started?

Firstly, how wonderful that you or your child has chosen to enter into the world of music, the universal language! Flute is a wonderful instrument, versatile and portable. To get started, you will need a “student” flute, preferably with case and cleaning stick and swab.

Why a Student flute?

Student flutes have specifications designed for students and beginner players. They do not have the features of a more advanced flute which may make the flute harder to learn in the initial stages.

What makes up a student flute?

Student flutes are primarily  silver plated over a nickel silver body and key work. Makers no longer choose to plate a flute with nickel as it has proven to be somewhat allergenic. The keys are closed to allow for ease of playing. The flute may or may not have a split E mechanism. This mechanism helps the E note pop out a little easier, and slightly improves the intonation of the E note. The differences are minor, and the mechanism is not essential.

Is there a difference between sounds among student flutes?

Yes. Flutes can be of different designs. The design of the headjoint is rather important in sound production of the flute. A large embouchure hole (the hole that is blown through) will allow for a large, bold sound. A smaller or narrower embouchure hole gives a sweet, but smaller tone.

Should I buy a new flute?

Depending on the brand, a new flute is a wonderful idea. Like anything, there are good and bad brands. You should speak with someone knowledgeable on the subject and fairly up to date with what flutes are on the current market. Some brands that used to be great have fallen by the way side, and vice versa, some flutes that were once considered poorer quality have improved three fold. Another consideration when purchasing new is the resale value. Will I be able to resell the flute in 12 months time if my child gives up? Again, only reputable brands will resell well.

Is buying a second hand flute an option?

Yes. Second hand flutes are always around. People stop playing and students upgrade their instrument. Buying second hand from web sites such as eBay or the trading post, sight unseen, is often a risk. You do not know the condition of the instrument and may end up with a poor quality flute. Try to purchase second hand flutes from reputable retailers or teachers. This way, someone else can play the instrument for you and demonstrate its ability. Some retailers will offer warranties on their second hand goods as well. This is a distinct advantage.

How do we look after the flute?

A flute should be wiped of the condensation from the inside after each play. This will be done with the flute cleaning rod with an absorbent swab wrapped around it. Once this is done, wipe the flute clean of fingerprints using a untreated soft cloth such as microfibre and put the flute back in its case.

Flutes, on average, need to be serviced by a trained technician every 12 to 18 months. The cost of this varies on the type of flute and the amount of usage it receives.

What brand  flute do we buy ?

See our entry level instrument  Buy Back Program ,  Enter  Here