Haynes? Gemeinhardt? Jupiter? Powell?
Moderators: Classitar, pied_piper, Phineas
Professional flutes are actually much more durable than low quality flutes. In addition, when they are easier to repair. Some low end instruments are constructed in a way that makes them virtually impossible to take apart (short pins which are crunched in with a machine) with the idea that they are cheaper to replace than to repair. High quality flutes have much stronger and more reliable mechanism. Basically, the only positive quality of low end flutes is their lower cost (and this is a very important consideration).
well, I'd keep the pro flute at home and take the intermediate to school. so durability shouldn't be an issue. but, I have switched instructors and I'm improving rapidly so now I'm beginning to wonder whether or not to get one. But, it's an investment, a nice big investment. there are also other things to consider like a piccilo, and a car, I'll start driving soon. so, I guess time will tell and just to keep looking around I guess.
thanks for your help! It has put quite a perspective on the issue.
Leanne
thanks for your help! It has put quite a perspective on the issue.
Leanne
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fluttiegurl
- Posts: 882
- Joined: Fri Dec 10, 2004 11:05 pm
As a general rule, you are probably ready to move to a better flute when it makes a great deal of difference in your playing. At this point, you have either outgrown your current flute or yours is in need of repair (which is a lot cheaper). Try out a few higher advanced, not "professional" flutes and see if there is a difference. If there is a noticeable difference, go from there. Don't jump into a pro flute during this trial, simply because almost EVERYONE sounds better on a handmade flute! For the average player, a solid silver Gemeinhardt, Armstrong, Emerson, Yamaha etc should last into college if it is taken care of and properly maintained. By that time, you will know enough about your playing and plans for the future to decide whether or not another flute is a necessary investment.
This is one of the funniest threads I have read in a long time. I am sitting here looking at my $100 dollar venus piccolo that I have been paid to play. On the other hand, I looking at my $5000 Hayes that has never made me a dollar.
Professional = Get paid.
Has nothing to do with the quality of the flute. I have always hated the term "Professional" when it comes to the discription of musical instruments.
There is only one good way to shop for a flute.
1. Figure out how much you want to spend.
2. Play on as many in your price range as possible till you find the best one for YOU.
3. Make sure there is a warantee, and the place you get it from will work on it.
4. Buy it.
I have ran into more good players with $1000 instruments, than ones with $5000 instruments. I cannot tell you how many times I see a person that is just an OK player with a "Professional" model flute.
The thing that is most important is whether YOU the player are happy with the instrument you buy, and it is easy for YOU to play.
Bottom line, if you play, and you get paid, you are a professional. Past that either you are good, or you are not that good. It is just that simple. The price you pay for an instrument is not going the change that.
Phineas
P.S.
For the money, my favorite flute is a Buffet/Crampton. I own the International Model which is compareable to their 8053 Model. Sounds and plays like a $5000 flute for around $2000.
Professional = Get paid.
Has nothing to do with the quality of the flute. I have always hated the term "Professional" when it comes to the discription of musical instruments.
There is only one good way to shop for a flute.
1. Figure out how much you want to spend.
2. Play on as many in your price range as possible till you find the best one for YOU.
3. Make sure there is a warantee, and the place you get it from will work on it.
4. Buy it.
I have ran into more good players with $1000 instruments, than ones with $5000 instruments. I cannot tell you how many times I see a person that is just an OK player with a "Professional" model flute.
The thing that is most important is whether YOU the player are happy with the instrument you buy, and it is easy for YOU to play.
Bottom line, if you play, and you get paid, you are a professional. Past that either you are good, or you are not that good. It is just that simple. The price you pay for an instrument is not going the change that.
Phineas
P.S.
For the money, my favorite flute is a Buffet/Crampton. I own the International Model which is compareable to their 8053 Model. Sounds and plays like a $5000 flute for around $2000.
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efhsBlueRegiment
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PAG
has nebody ever played "colonial song" by Percy Aldridge Granger 
Nothing Matters...everything makes a difference
-Mr.Slater's overhead
-Mr.Slater's overhead
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91st_Army_Flutist
- Posts: 7
- Joined: Mon Mar 21, 2005 11:56 am
You might just want to upgrade your headjoint for now. This will serve you well later when you want to upgrade the flute body because you will already have the "right" headjoint. I suggest Drelinger. I have played his headjoints since 1987 when I was 16 and there is nothing better. Check out his website: http://www.drelinger.com/
The price of upgrading the headjoint is a relatively small price to pay now and you will reap enormous benefits all through your playing career.
The price of upgrading the headjoint is a relatively small price to pay now and you will reap enormous benefits all through your playing career.
upgrading a headjoint for a beginner/advanced flute is a bit wasted money, since she may NEED to upgrade in a year or so. I would try Sonare flutes. Just don't get Yamaha. Yamaha's beginner flutes are great, but I've played their adveanced flutes in comparison with Sankyo and Sonare, and there is a big big big difference.
I don't like gemeinhart's at all (sorry for spelling). I tried playing one before, sound just doesn't come out for me...bad response. Some good models of Sonare flutes are around 1000 dollars start.
I don't like gemeinhart's at all (sorry for spelling). I tried playing one before, sound just doesn't come out for me...bad response. Some good models of Sonare flutes are around 1000 dollars start.
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fluttiegurl
- Posts: 882
- Joined: Fri Dec 10, 2004 11:05 pm
I have to admit that I disagree. I believe that the advanced Yamahas are overall better flutes because they are made better. Keep in mind that the Sonare is a cheaply made (no offense) flute with an American made Powell headjoint. In the end, you are really paying for the headjoint, which ironically costs about the same if you buy it seperate. In this case, a headjoint upgrade may be a good consideration under the condition that the flute that you are currently playing on is in good working condition.
Now for my disclaimer: I am not trying to criticize your flute at all. I have tried some Sonares that I thought sounded great, and I think this is a WONDERFUL idea that will at some point revolutionize the flute industry. I am simply trying to provide a different point of view. I also believe strongly that not all flutes are for everyone. Some people don't like Yamahas, and there is nothing wrong with that. I for one sound horrible on them! I believe that flute players should spend a great deal of time researching and tryng MANY flutes before making a purchase. If it works for you, then it is perfect!
I hope this does not offend! I just want to express my thoughts on the matter and provide a different point of view for someone looking at buying a new flute.
Now for my disclaimer: I am not trying to criticize your flute at all. I have tried some Sonares that I thought sounded great, and I think this is a WONDERFUL idea that will at some point revolutionize the flute industry. I am simply trying to provide a different point of view. I also believe strongly that not all flutes are for everyone. Some people don't like Yamahas, and there is nothing wrong with that. I for one sound horrible on them! I believe that flute players should spend a great deal of time researching and tryng MANY flutes before making a purchase. If it works for you, then it is perfect!
I hope this does not offend! I just want to express my thoughts on the matter and provide a different point of view for someone looking at buying a new flute.
Yeah.... from what I've heard there is sometimes a large difference between two flutes of the same model of Sonare flutes. I myself have a 6600, and it practically plays itself (even w/ a Gemeindhart headjoint- don't ask about that)... Course, there comes in the occasional horror story. I suggest that anyone wanting a Sonare buy from a company that basically quadruple-checks the mechanisms on the flute before they even send it to you (flute4u.com is great for this).
Well, that's my 2 cents.
Well, that's my 2 cents.
I'd like to know more about the teacher who is suggesting a flute upgrade.
If this is a private teacher with whom you expect to spend years, I suggest that you follow his/her recommendation within reason. Bring up the price issue and ask specifically what model would be good that is in your price range.
If I understand flute costs and values, a true professional flute could set you (more likely your parents) back thousands of dollars. But a professional flute should be played by someone who makes money playing the instrument--enough money to justify the cost of the instrument. And the cost should be recoverable through playing. A professional would also be able to take a tax deduction, since the instrument is a "tool" for earning a living.
Really, you should be clarifying this issue with your teacher. There are few musicians who really need a professional instrument. Unless you are a prodigy under the tutelage of a master flautist, it is doubtful that ANY middle school student needs a "professional instrument."
Good luck in making your decision.
If this is a private teacher with whom you expect to spend years, I suggest that you follow his/her recommendation within reason. Bring up the price issue and ask specifically what model would be good that is in your price range.
If I understand flute costs and values, a true professional flute could set you (more likely your parents) back thousands of dollars. But a professional flute should be played by someone who makes money playing the instrument--enough money to justify the cost of the instrument. And the cost should be recoverable through playing. A professional would also be able to take a tax deduction, since the instrument is a "tool" for earning a living.
Really, you should be clarifying this issue with your teacher. There are few musicians who really need a professional instrument. Unless you are a prodigy under the tutelage of a master flautist, it is doubtful that ANY middle school student needs a "professional instrument."
Good luck in making your decision.
I'm going to throw in a bit of food for thought here.
When referencing "professional" flutes, you will often see them described as "easier to play," "easier for you to play," and so forth.
I am not sure at all that I equate the quality of a flute with how easy it is to play.
Sometimes the flute that seems a bit harder to play at first might actually be the one you can learn the most from.
Also, the whole "easier to play" / "harder to play" thing has an awfully lot to do with who is playing it. If Sir James Galway is playing the thing, he might have vastly different ideas of "easy" verses "hard" as compared to your average high school student.
Just food for thought.
--James
When referencing "professional" flutes, you will often see them described as "easier to play," "easier for you to play," and so forth.
I am not sure at all that I equate the quality of a flute with how easy it is to play.
Sometimes the flute that seems a bit harder to play at first might actually be the one you can learn the most from.
Also, the whole "easier to play" / "harder to play" thing has an awfully lot to do with who is playing it. If Sir James Galway is playing the thing, he might have vastly different ideas of "easy" verses "hard" as compared to your average high school student.
Just food for thought.
--James
haha
Well I'm going to add my brand since no one else has. I have a professional master's series II by Trevor James. I'm sixteen years old and I switched from a beginner's flute to a professional one very quickly. Also, it was very easy to switch from closed to open holes. It took me about 2 months to get used to the new heavier, more resistant flute, adjusting embrocure, etc... I'm really glad I switched and I guarentee that if you practice, (every day, don't take breaks) you'll eventually master it. I'm very pleased with mine. Trevor James have very beautiful sound and have many many options. I reccomend shopping at JB Weissman for professional flutes.