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!

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.

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.

Flute Features

When picking a student instrument, look for the following features:

Undercut and beveled embouchure hole
High quality head joint
Double bladder pads
Nickel-silver forged keys
Durable, high quality silver plating
Ergonomic key design
Calibrated for excellent intonation
Sturdy material used for keys that stand up to daily use
Sturdy case
Strong and durable key posts
Adjustment mechanism for pad alignment

Required music items include:

Folding music stand
Book (see Recommended Instruments for the appropriate grade level book)
Lyre and flip folders: used for marching band and/or All Island Band Night

Flute Accessories