5 tips for choosing a new flute
Deciding on a new flute (or a second hand flute) to purchase can be a daunting task for beginner players, and their parents! This article aims to provide some general tips to guide your flute shopping.
1. Try before you buy
Whenever possible it is always recommended a flutist test play some instruments prior to purchase. Of course this requires a visit to a flute or music store, or a private seller, and is subject to any particular store’s conditions on test playing. Test plays can reveal a number of things that are often not understood nor capable of being investigated in an online purchase. These include the ability to inspect the instrument, making sure it is in good playing condition. Some players can sound amazing when playing some brands, and not so great on others. The tension and feel of the keywork can vary, and some players just have a knowingness that one flute sounds and feels better than another. Rent to buy arrangements can be a good solution for the real beginners who just want to test the waters before committing to a purchase.
2. Learn from the flute or woodwind specialist stores
Flute boutique stores are the bees knees for flute shopping. Generally speaking, these stores stock the brands they do for a reason – they are reliable, quality instruments! Even if you can’t make an in-person visit, sometimes these stores will send a selection of flutes to you for trial purposes. Often their websites have excellent and helpful information, enabling you to decipher the technical specification jargon that can be confusing for new players. So even if you can’t visit a boutique store, browsing the websites and ‘window shopping’ is still recommended.
3. Timing is everything
Many stores, including the flute boutique stores, advertise regular sales and even pop-up stores in other locations. Keeping an eye on websites and signing up for newsletters is the best way to learn about these sales. Generally towards the ends of financial years and calendar years are the best times to secure a bargain.
4. After sales service
Purchasing from a flute store or other music store has benefits. Flute boutique stores often have in-house flute repair and service technicians, and sometimes your new flute will come with a free or reduced price first service (yes, flutes need to be serviced!). Some flute and general music stores have second-hand flutes on consignment, and often these come with a limited guarantee as they have been serviced prior to sale.
5. Know your rights
If you purchase a new flute it will likely include some warranty or guarantee information. Regardless, your purchase might be covered by consumer guarantee law, such as the Australian consumer guarantees. If you have any troubles, check back in with your place of purchase first, and if necessary seek legal advice.
The above tips are mostly relevant for store purchases, but there can be many great private sales too. The best advice for private shopping is still aim to try before you buy, and consult with a seasoned flute player (preferably your teacher) prior to purchasing. Flute teachers have seen a lot of different flutes over their teaching careers, and while they might have their favourites, they can usually help you avoid any pitfalls.