Isn't a G flat the same as a F sharp

[bandgeeksrule621]

i have band camp from 7 to 12 in the morning and my director won't tell me i f they r the same

[flutepicc06]

Speaking in terms of equal temperament (where all half steps are the same distance apart from the next consecutive note), yes, they are the same pitch. From a strict theory standpoint, they can occasionally be regarded as different (for example, in a D Major chord, it would be an F#, not a G-flat), or in other temperaments, but for all practical purposes they are the same. That is, they both use the same fingering, though theoretically maintaining a difference.

[MeLizzard]

The fingering is the same, and such notes are called enharmonic pitches (same sound and fingering, different names), but g-flat and f# are NOT the same. One is G-flat, the other is F#. We need to learn to read sharps as they're printed, or else go crazy! When my students ask why they can't simply mark through the sharp with the enharmonic flat name, most lack the theory background to understand a lengthy discussion of harmony, but I tell them just don't do it. Some are satisfied by hearing, "There simply aren't any flats in the key of B minor!". Others crave deeper explanation. The function the note plays in its particular key is completely changed (to "WRONG") by just "making it a flat". Theoretically, you can't simply "make it a flat". For the sake of your sightreading and sanity, please just find some music in simple sharp keys--one, two, of three sharps--and practice reading them.