Haven’t any of you had a “break through” with your instrument? Well, this past weekend that’s what I did. I have a Dixon student flute (one-piece). What do any of you think that I should “up-grade” to? I think emboucher has improved a bit. Just enough I think so that I can move up a little. What do you think?
What’re ya thinkin’ in terms of material - a new wooden flute, or something a little less grand in terms of upgrade?
If the latter, I’d say pretty much everyone here would agree that the absolute best “quickie upgrade” comes in the form of an Olwell bamboo flute or one of the better polymer jobs - say, an M&E or a Seery. I’d vote Seery, but then I know the guy who’s his US rep…
In terms of wood flutes, for lots of bang for your buck, I’d vote either Sam Murray or Gilles Lehart - they happen to be my favorites in terms of keyless flutes, but then I have a pretty whacked take on what sounds best in IrTrad flute playing.
Just as a note, Murray’s are great for small hands, though - Lehart’s, on the other hand, require a pretty serious pair of mitts and nastily precise embrochure.
Best of luck and best of choices!
Regards,
Jamey.
My advice is listen to different types of flutes. Find the ones you like and get on the waiting lists. And if you find out that you don’t like the flute you can sell it on ebay usually for more than you paid for it.
The murray’s are a little hard to come by though, so I’m not sure if that is the easiest upgrade.
Jack Murphy
I second Jack/Stout’s advice.. it is good to know specifically what kind of flute you like before you commit to a good wood flute. Try not to rush into it until you distinctively know what you’re looking for. Listen to lots of recordings or even better, meet up with people who have the flutes you’re thinking of buying.
However if you’re thinking of a not-so-drastic upgrade, I can recommend a M&E Rudall copy or a Seery. I had a breakthrough on my tone on my M&E Rudall recently and now can get a lovely dry tone out of it. Its really quite a nice flute.
Thanks guys!!!