All the Flute Information You'll Ever Need!
The flute is one of the most common instruments in the world today and there is a wealth of flute information out there. So I have tried to condense the material down to a manageable size so you can quickly see what it's all about. So why is the flute so popular? Because most people can get a sound out of a flute and the instruments themselves don't cost too much for the beginner.
Another option to look into is renting a flute. This is probably your best bet to start with, as your child can try out the flute and decide if they like it or not without you having to spend lots of money on a new instrument. When buying a used flute make sure you ask a professional for advice or even better ask them to come with you to try the instrument. Obviously this is where Ebay and the local ads are at a disadvantage as you can't try before you buy. This is why it's a VERY RISKY activity to buy any musical instrument without inspecting it first.
For a more in-depth guide to buying a flute click here
To play the flute you need to have arms long enough to reach the holes, and you need to be strong enough to support the instrument out to one side while you play. It can be played by people of all ages and skill level but the recommended age to start flute lessons is 8-10 years old. Flute manufacturers do offer a flute with curved headjoints to make it possible for a smaller child to play the instrument without difficulty. Your flute teacher may recommend a curved headjoint for a small, beginner and will switch them to a straight headjoint as your child progresses. Another alternative is the fife. Some teachers have had great success with teaching the fifie to children as young as 5 years old and then moving them on to the flute later on.
The flute is actually a pretty delicate instrument and it doesn't take a great deal of force to bend a rod or a key and stop the instrument from working. Also the pads (that close the holes to change the notes) need replacing from time to time. But overall the maintenance costs aren't too great. There are many resources available that give you flute information. But here's a very simple one I have found...
Click Here for Tips on Cleaning Your Flute
Because the flute is so widely available it has been used in many different types of music. So you can play the flute on it's own (solo), in an orchestra, with other flautists in a flute choir, or in a marching band. Or even a pop band (Do any of you oldies out there remember Jethro Tull?). It's actually a very versatile instrument.
The Flute has been around for hundreds of years and and there is always new music being written for the instrument, therefore there is plenty of music to be played .
Find a good teacher, someone who will encourage you (or your child). Ask them for advice on getting an instrument, be it from a school or buying secondhand. Then begin your fluting journey!
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