Flute Recommendations
Instrument Rental or Purchase
We are fortunate to have several excellent music vendors in our area, all of whom provide quality instruments and repair services. It is important that students and their parents select instrument from the recommended list. Beginning student level instruments vary widely in terms of quality. We want all of our students to have every opportunity for their best success playing their instrument. An instrument of poor quality can be frustrating and difficult to play. Students have trouble playing well, and don’t realize that it’s not their fault, it’s because of the instrument!
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Recommended Flute Brands
A critical component to your child's success as a musician is the quality of his/her instrument. Unfortunately, all brands are not created equal! Below is a list of instrument brands we have found to be of consistently high quality. We encourage you not to compromise your child's opportunity for success.
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Yamaha, Gemeinhardt, Selmer, Emerson, Armstrong, Olds, Jupiter
No such list can be all-inclusive. The directors are happy to look at other instruments upon request.
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Flute Features
When picking a student instrument, look for the following features:
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Undercut and beveled embouchure hole
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High quality head joint
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Double bladder pads
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Nickel-silver forged keys
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Durable, high quality silver plating
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Ergonomic key design
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Calibrated for excellent intonation
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Sturdy material used for keys that stand up to daily use
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Sturdy case
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Strong and durable key posts
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Adjustment mechanism for pad alignment
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Required music items include:
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Folding music stand
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Book (see Recommended Instruments for the appropriate grade level book)
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Lyre and flip folders: used for marching band and/or All Island Band Night
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Flute Accessories
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Small 5x7" mirror (Highly recommended)
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Cleaning swab: required to keep your instrument in good working order
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