Purchasing Your First Flute

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The flute belongs to the wind family of musical instruments. It is of ancient origin and was first made of wood. Now, however, the flute is made of silver and other metals.

There are two types of methods used in playing the flute: side-blown or end-blown. Generally, a closed-hole silver-plated flute with a C footjoint is recommended for student beginners.

Here are some guidelines when buying your first flute.


Determine Your Budget
As with any important purchase, determining your budget must always be your first step. Bear in mind that if you are serious about learning to play the flute, you must set aside a substantial amount in order to purchase one of good quality. Your budget will also determine whether you will buy new, used or rent a flute.

Buying a New Flute
The advantages of buying a new flute is, of course, you are assured you are the first owner and that it is almost always covered by a guarantee. One disadvantage, especially if you're on a budget, is that it's more expensive. One tip when searching for a flute is to visit music stores that has repair facilities. Be sure to bring along a flute teacher, a flute professional or someone who knows a lot about flutes to help you make your choice.

Buying a Used Flute
Buying a used flute may certainly be cheaper but keep in mind that cheaper doesn't always mean you found a good deal. You can find used flutes through newspaper ads, flea markets, pawn shops, bulletin board ads in school, online stores, etc. You may also ask music store owners if they have refurbished or demonstrator models. Also, bring along a flute expert to try out and inspect the flute.

Renting Your Flute
One of the advantages of renting a flute is that it gives you the opportunity to try the flute before you actually buy it. There are music stores that have rental programs so be sure to ask those in your area.

Compare Before You Commit
Buying your first musical instrument is really very exciting but don't be carried away. Give yourself time to visit different stores in you area and to compare the quality and prices of the flutes. Don't buy the first one you see unless you have researched it thoroughly beforehand.

Name Brands
There are many good name brands of flutes out in the market today. The best thing to do if you're shopping for name brands is to research it first. The internet will be a most helpful tool when it comes to this. Write down the brands you're most interested in and jot down the pros and cons of each brand. Ask advice from flute experts such as your music teacher.

Metal Flutes

The student model is the least expensive of the metal flutes because it is made of copper, zinc and silver. Handmade flutes are the most expensive because it is either made of silver, gold or platinum.

Wooden Flutes
Although not as popular as before, there are still some countries like Germany that make wooden flutes. Wooden flutes sounds and handles differently than metal flutes.



Credits: About.com Guide