Flute

Lessons you can take:

We offer flute lessons through our small group/individual tuition scheme (school dependant).

When to start:

From school years 4 - 5. Very much depends on arm length and hand size.

Costs:

Hire:

We charge £26.90 per term, plus VAT where applicable. Find out more about hiring from us.

Buy:

From about £325 for a new 'student' quality outfit. (flute & case). Advanced students should be prepared to spend considerably more. Secondhand instruments easily available. Always seek the teacher's advice before buying.

Other:

Very few - occasional adjustments and pad replacement.

Pros/Cons:

Pros:

Relatively easy to play in the early stages. Wide range of music written for the instrument. Opportunities to play in wind bands and flute choirs.

Cons:

Becomes harder later on. Most orchestras only have two or three flute places so there is intense competition. Limited opportunities in Jazz and folk music.

Find out more about the flute from the BBC’s guide to the orchestra.

GM 'Get Playing' Video Series

How to assemble and make your first sound

First three notes

First six notes