3 Flutes to Choose From. Please Advise.

[Adrianne]

I have narrowed down my choices of beginner flutes to
purchase in my price range for my daughter. Out of
the 3 listed below, which would you go with?

1. Used Yamaha 225SII, closed hole
2. Used Gemeinhardt Model 3, open hole
3. New Prelude by Selmer, open hole

They are all in the same ball park as far as pricing.
I don't want to spend over $1000, particularly if my
daughter lose interest. This is her first time in band.

Thanks a bunch,
Adrianne

[Zevang]

I'd go with the Yamaha.

[Aessina]

1. Used Yamaha 225SII
SIlver-plated nickel is definitely the way to go with a beginner flute. Your daughter is going to end up dropping it a few times, and nickel holds up much better against dents than silver. The offset-G key feels more natural when learning hand position. Please note Yamaha flutes tend to have a darker tone.

2. Used Gemeinhardt Model 3
Another silver-plated nickel flute. Again, an offset G key is going to have a more natural feel than an inline-G key. Please, please, PLEASE make sure there are key plugs for the holes. Learning to play the flute is hard enough, without having to worry about covering the holes with your fingers too. You should try to wean her off the plugs after a few weeks of playing, or whenever you or her teachers feel she's ready.

3. New Prelude by Selmer
Again, silver-plated nickel and offset-G key french model.

I would say "Go with what she feels fits her best," but your daughter doesn't know how to play yet. Honestly, I'd go with the Yamaha. They make amazing everything. I own a Yamaha flute myself, and I absolutely love it. I'm sure someone else can answer this better than I can.

If you can rent one of these options, please do. If your daughter likes it, consider purchasing it. I hope your daughter has an amazing experience with her flute! It's always nice to know another person is joining the flute community.

[fluttiegurl]

From a teacher's perspective, the Yamaha is a better bang for your buck (so to speak).

[Adrianne]

Thanks guys for all your input. You saved me
from getting sucked into one of those $100
flutes on ebay. Whew!

Since the Selmer was made out of the same
material as the other two, I went with it.
Also, it was brand new and has a really nice
sound. If my daughter sticks with it, I will
definitely upgrade her to a Yamaha.

Thanks again