I'm going to be a sophomore in high school next year, and I'm going to be in both concert and jazz band. I decided that I needed a step-up flute, the problem is I'm on a tight budget and I doubt my parents would support me in this purchase.
Do you know where I can get a reasonably priced flute that will at least take me through the rest of high school? Or anyway I could convince my parents to help me buy a flute?
A "tight budget " and "reasonably priced" are not definitive enough for someone to offer much in the way of help. Are you stepping up from a beginner flute to and intermediate? Intermediate level flutes cover a broad price range from around $1000 up to perhaps $3000 or $4000. If you tell us your budget it would help narrow the field.
"Never give a flute player a screwdriver."
--anonymous--
To answer your questions, I currently have a cheapo "amazon special" beginner's flute, giving me no leeway whatsoever. That said, I'd like to step up to an intermediate flute.
My budget is below $1000... Yikes.
I found a used Jupiter DiMedici on eBay, it seems to be in good condition, but I'm afraid to risk it. I also found and Armstrong but I've heard mostly bad things about those.
My band teacher also recommended that I get a flute with open holes and a B foot.
I found a used Jupiter DiMedici on eBay, it seems to be in good condition, but I'm afraid to risk it. I also found and Armstrong but I've heard mostly bad things about those.
My band teacher also recommended that I get a flute with open holes and a B foot.
OK, now we have something to work with. There are a number of good options around the $1000 price point. eBay can be a good place to get a flute for a good price, but no matter what the seller says about the condition, expect to spend about $100-$500 to put it in top playing shape. eBay can be risky too unless you are VERY familiar with the market. Some sellers sell junk and there's no way to know for sure until it's yours. So, buyer beware...
Used flutes are also available from a number of reputable flute dealers. so check out some of the online stores listed in the Fluteland FAQ. It also has links to some of the best flute vendors that are online along with recommended brands and explanations of flute features. Be sure to check it out! http://www.fluteland.com/board/viewtopic.php?f=4&t=5859
Also, I did a quick search of a few stores and here are a some new intermediate flutes with the features you mentioned (open hole and B foot) and in your general price range. The lower priced ones will be silver plated but some may include a sterling silver headjoint. Be sure to read the specs carefully before you buy.
I also found a flute with the features I needed on KSL (which is basically like Craigslist but specific to my region) so I might go test that one out soon.