The Best Flutes
Mastering an instrument can take a lifetime of practice. Fortunately, it’s never too late to start. A flute is a great instrument for anyone to learn since it takes up little space and can be very affordable. On top of that, they require minimal maintenance and upkeep. Check out our list of the best flutes below and find the one that's right for you.
What To Look For
When choosing our favorite flutes, we looked for options that are durable, produce a bright and beautiful sound, and are a fantastic value for their price. For example, Eastar’s flute comes with everything you need to safely transport, clean, and tune it. Hall Crystal Flute’s glass piccolo, on the other hand, is a six-hole flute that can produce a traditional Celtic sound. Keep on reading to learn more.
Glory Closed Hole C Flute
The gold standard
There are many reasons to love Glory’s closed-hole flute. First off, it’s easy to set up and play right from the box. It’s durable and produces a rich sound thanks to its copper-alloy construction. Best of all, it’s very affordable, making it great for beginner players who aren’t sure if they’re ready to shell out a ton of money on a new instrument.
Pros:
- It’s playable straight out of the box and easy to maintain.
- It has rolled edges on the key holes that protect them from wear and tear as you use them.
Cons:
- The finish may be prone to wearing off in high-contact areas, leaving it looking a bit duller in those spots.
Eastar Closed Hole C Flute
More for your money
Maintaining a new flute can seem overwhelming, but it’s significantly easier when you have all the right tools. Eastar’s flute comes with a carrying case, stand, and more to help ensure it stays in great shape. It even comes with gloves to help prevent fingerprints and smudges from ruining its shiny polish. If you’re searching for a flute that’s easy to care for, look no further.
Pros:
- We love the bright tone and resonant timbre of the nickel construction.
- The polishing looks fantastic, bringing the flute a classy sparkle that catches people’s attention.
Cons:
- The sections are a bit tight, so it may take a little time to put the flute together and take it apart.
Medini Closed Hole C Flute
Medini’s closed-hole flute fits right in, regardless of whether it’s used in competitions, concerts, or classrooms. With a beautifully polished finish, it looks every bit as elegant as it sounds, especially when played with a marching band outdoors. It sports an undercut beveled embouchure and double bladder pads to ensure the best sound performance. And to protect it wherever you go, it comes with a padded hard case with a shoulder strap and zippered pockets.
Pros:
- This flute is very well made and balances the line between professional quality and affordability.
- We love that it comes in multiple color options, providing a more customizable experience for you or your kids.
Cons:
- While this flute is excellent for marching band, it may be a bit sensitive to high-moisture climates, which can affect its sound.
Akhfky Wooden Flutes
Safe and easy learning
If you’re looking for starter flutes to get your kids started on their first musical instruments, Akhfky has you covered. These two wooden flutes are easy to play, with just six notes to learn on each. They’re beautifully painted with bright and vibrant colors kids will love. And best yet, they’re appropriately sized for younger children with smaller hands.
Pros:
- These flutes are the perfect size for kids and toddlers, allowing them to have fun playing with them at an early age.
- We love how affordable they are, allowing your kids to try their hand at a new instrument without being a substantial financial investment.
Cons:
- Because they’re made from wood, cleaning them may take a bit more time. You can try soaking them in soapy water and then letting them dry for a couple of days.
Hall Crystal Flute’s Inline Glass Piccolo
There are other flute options besides the classic metal or wood. And while this glass piccolo is made in the key of “C” like many others, it only has six holes and produces a softer, more mellow tone. It’s still capable of playing any classical piece of music but can bring a beautiful twist to a traditional Celtic vibe. If you’re looking for a unique instrument to showcase to friends and family, consider this glass piccolo.
Pros:
- We love its warm and unique sound, capable of producing a lower pitch and mellower tones than others.
- The craftsmanship is spectacular, and the artwork looks sharp and beautiful.
Cons:
- Because it’s made from glass, this flute requires careful handling to prevent it from breaking.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is cupronickel?
Cupronickel is a copper alloy that contains nickel and other elements like iron and manganese that help make it stronger. It’s often used as a silver replacement because of its similar color due to nickel’s high electronegativity. This helps make it fantastic for flutes and other musical instruments.
How should I care for my cupronickel flute?
As with other delicate instruments, it’s important to be very careful when handling them to prevent dents or damage. We recommend wiping it down after every use to keep it looking sparkling and like new — otherwise, it will start to dull over time. Using a cleaning rod will also help prevent dust or bacterial buildup inside the flute.
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