Purchasing an Intermediate Flute

[lily6270]

I have been playing the flute for 8 years and I have been thinking about upgrading my flute. Currently I play the Yamaha 221 student flute. Are there any brands and specific flutes that you recommend? And are there any brands I should avoid? One of the brands I'm not sure about is Gemeinhardt. I've heard good and bad about it however more bad. I am willing to spend up to $1700 or so on an intermediate flute. I am currently a high school student and I plan on continuing to play flute throughout college. Any suggestions?

Thanks in advance

[Gandalfe]

There is no magic bullet for instruments. There are so many really good flutes. And many of us buy used pro flutes for less than the price of a new intermediate flute. We all have our favorites, and those favs can be based on less than scientific analysis. As long as you shy away from cheap, no name instruments you will probably be fine.

If you know the university you are going to, you might tap a professor to make a recommendation, especially if your major is going to be in music. And if possible, I would consider play testing a candidate. Do remember, a new instrument will take months to adjust to. So you are really just checking the keyworks (buttery smooth is good) and the inherent intonation and tone of the instrument. Bring your tuner to the play test.

Good luck!