Will my neighbours hate me?

[Orionis]

I've been wanting to learn an instrument for ages now, but I had little time and little money. My biggest interest was in the cello or the violin, but as I understand it, learning those could take a lifetime and absolutely requires a teacher. The next best thing for me would be a flute. Relatively cheap, durable, low maintenance, small and portable, and a beautiful sound and range.

I'm on the edge about going to buy a Yamaha YFL-221, I'm scared that the instrument will be so loud that I will cower away from playing it from fear of disturbing neighbours in my apartment building. Obviously all apartment buildings are different and some walls are thicker than others, but what do you guys think about practicing flute at home?

Cheers!

[Phineas]

I also live in an apartment. Here are a few pointers.

1. Pick a regular time to play/practice. Usually, if you play at the same time every day, people who live near you will be prepared for it.I usually play between 6pm and 8pm for example. Right before the prime time TV shows and sports games come on. But no later than 9pm
2. Learn the schedule of the people around you. Make sure you are not playing during a time when someone is sleeping. Someone who may work nights and sleeps in the day time.

I have never gotten complaints, even in Hotels. Now, there are a few more rules if you plan on playing a Saxophone or a Clarinet.

[fluteguy18]

Now, there are a few more rules if you plan on playing a Saxophone or a Clarinet.

Oh yes! A saxophone for example should never be played.

[pied_piper]

Oh yes! A saxophone for example should never be played.

Agreed. I never play my saxophone. I'm always serious so my saxophone is PERFORMED!

[LuRPh]

I stay in hotels a couple of nights a week, so I end up practicing a lot in hotels. As long as I play before 8-8:30pm, I've never had anyone complain.

[Gandalfe]

Worrying about neighbors is prudent. But the quality of your neighbors can really be a dice roll. As long as you follow the suggestions above you should be fine.

I do think that taking some lessons will improve your chances of gaining any proficiency on any instrument. There is just too much that is dependant upon your physical traits that you will want to work with. There is nothing quite as powerful for speeding up your progress like the time spent with a really good instructor. Good luck.