 The Fingering Forum
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Author: Chris
Date: 1999-09-20 15:49
My 11 yr old daughter is just starting flute in her 6th grade band. We've rented a flute from a local music store to get her started, but would like to purchase one once the introductory rental rate expires. Can anyone recommend some good brands? Also, what should we look for in a used flute? Thanks!
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Author: Lewy
Date: 1999-09-23 21:01
I also have a daughter who is just beginning to learn the flute and have been looking for info. Take this for what it's worth, but another web site that deals in flute sales and lessons stated that there is very little difference among the brands of "starter" flutes (Selmer, Armstrong, Yamaha, Jupiter, Pearl, Artley, Gemeinhardt, Emerson, and Leblanc were those mentioned). The only warning given was to stay away from those made in China (mainland). Most major brands, it said, are manufactured in Taiwan and as long as the flute is in good shape, they should all sound similar and hold up equally as well. It made the point that, at the beginner stage, PRACTICE is what counts, not the brand of flute. I don't remember the name of the web site or I would give it to you.
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Author: Patti
Date: 1999-09-24 00:32
I am a private instructor and I have to disagree with the advice offered so far. I always have my students start out with Gemeinhardt as my first choice and Armstrong is second. My most advanced students in junior high and high school started out on the two manufacturers I mentioned. At the beginner stage, quality instrument, private instruction and devotion to practicing all equally count in a successful music experience.
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Author: John
Date: 1999-10-04 18:34
As you can see there are many different opinions on this subject and if you polled 20 private teachers and band directors you would get every brand name flute possible. Most teachers have a preference for the brand of flute they like for beginners. Check with your teacher.
Regarding the response that most flutes are made in Taiwan, this is not true. Most major manufacturers make their instruments in the United States. Any brand that is not produced in the US is questionable with the exception of Yamaha(I'm not sure if they make them in Grand Rapids, MI or Japan). Major manufacturers in the US are Selmer, Armstrong, Artley, Gemeinhardt, and Emerson that I am aware of.
Last but not least, the most important thing in a beginning flute is the ease of play. A beginner can not tell if the instrument has a problem because they don't know what to expect from the instrument. These instruments can go out of adjustment very easily and this makes it difficult and frustrating for a beginner. If you child has moderate success and you start hearing complaints like "I used to be able to do this" then it is probably out of adjustment. You need an expert(band director, private teacher or repairman)to be able to tell this.
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Author: nicky
Date: 1999-10-05 01:27
i advise you not to get a beguiner, my mom made the mestake with me and she regreted it, you will need to get her a new one in about 3 years anyway so gt her a second had open hole with plugs and a b foot, i recoment Gemineheart
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Author: Laura
Date: 1999-10-14 00:07
Congratulations to your daughter for choosing to play the flute. With practice and hard work and good flute "habits" she should have a successful experience. I tend to disagree with the choice of a Gemeinhardt for the beginning (and even more advanced student). Yamaha, Selmer, Armstrong, and Pearl are all fine flutes. I suggest you contact a reputable dealer and try different flutes. Many dealers will send you flutes on trial for a small deposit. YOur daughter will be able to tell which flute is the best fit for her...ask her instructor also to check how she handles the flute, and it's construction. Good luck in your quest.
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Author: Chelsea
Date: 2000-01-03 14:12
GEIMENHARDT!! I have played flute for 5 years now and believe me you'll do the best on a Geimenhardt. Look for good pads, and make sure it has no major dents. Other than that really, happy playing!
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Author: Will
Date: 2000-03-31 19:52
I have to disagree with Lewy's opinion. I bought a student flute seven years ago in Mainland China for about $50. The brand is called Xinghai. It was actually quite good for its price, much better than something called Winston (or Windsor or something like that) that I test-played not long ago in a local store that sells for over $300. Not sure if the Winston flute is also made in China though...
I just bought a Yamaha intermediate 461H, and I am pretty happy with it. I also test-played Germeinhart 3OSB, and it is not as good as Yamaha in my opinion.
Good luck,
will
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Author: Maja
Date: 2005-12-08 14:36
I`m just starting to play the flute, just for fun.Can anyone recommend some good brands and, what should we look for in a used flute?
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