How do I buy the right flute?
It’s really important to get a flute that your child is going to want to pick up and play. So something that is not too big, eg a curved head or waveline flute for little ones. Or one that is easy to make a sound on.
There are plenty of obstacles to overcome when learning the flute, so don’t make one of them the instrument itself.
It should be in good working order with no leaks or dents.
How much is a good flute?
Please don’t buy from eBay, or ALDI or the cheapest one you can find.
They often are poorly made which means
- They don’t play very well
- They come up with mechanical problems as you play
- Become difficult to play
- Have to send them to the repairer which becomes $$$ and inconvenient
- Sound terrible
- All of which doesn’t encourage any young player to practice, which they need to do in order to improve.
Where can I buy a good flute?
There are many options for getting a good quality flute without breaking the bank.
Here are some alternatives and please feel free to contact me to discuss your best option. It’s an important decision and I’m more than happy to help out!
- BUY NEW from a reputable dealer or representative.
(Don’t worry, I know who they are and can get you in touch). - BUY 2ND HAND from a repairer. There are a number of good instrument repairers around, and they see lots of instruments come through their doors. They will often have a great second-hand instrument ready to sell you, with a warranty.
- RENT a good instrument. I have had many successful students begin on rental instruments. A number of music shops and even flute representatives have this option.
- BUY 2nd HAND from a student who is upgrading. There is almost ALWAYS someone who is ready to upgrade to their next instrument, and would happily sell their precious flute to you. Just ask me!
Should the flute be cleaned?
Yes absolutely! You will have a cleaning rod, and 2 cloths – one for the inside to wipe up all the condensation from your day’s play and one for the outside to keep it shiny! Not just for good looks, but to keep the flute clean from body oils, tarnish and anything that it may have come in contact with. This keeps your flute working its best.
What if my flute doesn’t play?
Bring it in for me to see at your next lesson. It could be a simple little thing like a spring getting snagged on your clothes, which I can fix.
I can also do some minor adjustments.
If it’s anything more serious, we can send it off to be serviced.
When do I send the flute for a service?
Ideally your flute should be serviced about once a year. There are some reputable repairers around Melbourne, so we can discuss where we can send it that’s most convenient for you.
What if I want to do an exam?
Exams are a wonderful way to set goals and reach milestones. If you want to do an exam, just say so if I haven’t suggested it! We can discuss which level suits your needs best.
What about Suzuki graduation?
Suzuki Graduation is a beautiful way to polish, piece and raise your standard of playing. I will suggest it when the time comes.
Does the parent need to be in the lesson?
For the very young student, yes they do. For progress to happen this is essential. I will give you all the help you need to support your child in their musical development. As the child gets older, they invariably reach a point where they want to be independent and can attend on their own. At which point, I would love to see the parent every few weeks just to touch base.
What about events that aren’t in the flute masters studio?
There are LOTS of events that provide performance, learning, competition and camp opportunities. I keep abreast of these as much as I can. However, it’s sometimes hard to keep up, so if you hear of any you want to be involved in, go for it! There are council music groups and Eisteddfods, Melbourne Youth Music, Musical Society of Victoria, Suzuki Music, Victorian Flute Guild etc. Each have many opportunities, so there’s at least one you’ll love.
Do you teach beyond year 12
If you want to! I will happily continue teaching you.
Do you do extra lessons in the school holidays
Not usually. However, each case is different and sometimes there’s a need. Eg. A year 11 student studying VCE Music Solo Performance will have lessons through the summer holidays and again in the term 3 holidays leading up to their exam. If you are needing extra lessons, just give me a call to have a chat.
What if I’m sick?
I have a 24 hour cancellation policy. I’d prefer you to not come to your lesson sick, for both you and me, and the students around you. Stay home and get better! we can even try an online lesson.
Refer to the studio policy on the Lessons page of the website for more details.
Do you do online lessons?
Yes sometimes! There are times we are both available, but can’t be in the same room together. So a skype/zoom lesson can be a great way to have our time together but being separated by space. This is a great way to have a lesson if:
- you’re stuck at home without a car or parent to drive you
- you’re quarantined because of something like chicken pox but can still function pretty well
- one of us is interstate but there is a deadline looming, like an exam, and we need our lesson!