Best Flute Reviews 2018

The flute, a member of the woodwind instruments family, is one of most recognizable, as well as one of the oldest musical instruments in the world. Over time, the flute has evolved into a complex instrument. Every musician has a personal preference based on their experience with the flute, which is why choosing the right flute can be a daunting task. However, we hope our comprehensive review on some of the best flute brands will help you out.

Overview

PROS

CONS

SPECS

Type

Key

Material(s)

Size/Weight

Extras

Our Top Choice

Mendini by Cecilio Nickel Plated Flute

Cecilio is known for their handcrafted and instructor approved musical instruments which pass rigorous quality standards to give you world class music.

Mendini Closed Hole C flute is excellent for beginners and highly trained flutists. It’s feature packed for its affordable price and is really lightweight.

It’s made with soft metal, which makes it more affordable, but also more prone to breaking down.

Closed Hole

16 keys

Nickel Silver

2 pounds (12 x 3 x 5 inches)

Adjustment Screws included

Best Value

Hallelu Music Nickel Plated Flute

Hallelu is a well-loved brand among beginner performers and students. They produce affordable instruments and are highly recommended by teachers.

The Hallelu 200 is an excellent flute for beginners. The closed hole keys make holding and playing the flute easy.

The sound quality and tone, while above average for beginner lessons, is not quite on a par with the more expensive brands.

Closed Hole

16 keys

Nickel Plated

10 pounds (17 x 4 x 6 inches)

Case and Pro-Care Products

Gemeinhardt Model 3OB Flute

Gemeinhardt is a prominent manufacturer of musical instruments and has been since 1940; it is the largest maker of flutes and piccolos.

Triple plated silver construction ensures that the shine and luster of the flute will last for years.

The embouchure hole of the flute can make it difficult to play for beginners. Also, some customers report that the case can break easily.

Open Hole

16 keys

Silver Plated

2.6 pounds (18.2 x 5.1 x 3.1 inches)

5 year warranty

Yamaha Student Flute

Yamaha is world-renowned for building quality musical instruments. The Japanese multinational conglomerate has a prominent presence in a wide range of sectors.

The flute is very easy to play. The build of the flute with neoprene bumpers increases its durability.

The flute is priced slightly on the higher end as compared to other novice flutes.

Closed Hole

16 keys

Nickel Silver

2 pounds (17 x 6 x 4.5 inches)

Optional fluid maintenance kit

Glory C Flute With Case

Musical Instruments by Glory offer high quality products and beautiful sounds. They are perfect for beginners.

The flute combines quality with affordability. It’s likewise excellent for practice and rough usage due to its durability.

The flute colors chip off easily. Also, the cleaning rod is made up of plastic instead of metal.

Closed Hole

16 keys

Cupronickel

2 pounds (16.3 x 5.7 x 3.3 inches)

Case, Gloves, Grease and Cleaner

(Updated November 17, 2017)

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Watch Our Flute Review

How Do I Choose the Best Flute?

The other day as I walked around town, I went down a street that I hadn’t used in over five years. So much had changed about the street, including the types of businesses that had opened up on there. However, there was one thing that confirmed that I was on the right street – the blind man playing his flute in front of one of the buildings. This man was standing in the exact spot he’d been standing the last time I saw him, and it got me thinking of just how much his skill on the flute had sustained him all these years.

As part of the woodwind instrument family, a flute has the divine ability to charm you with its clear tone, which is unique and can be compared to no other- not even that of a keyboard! Just like the soothing effect of the harp, the sweet music from a flute has a velvety aspect. Traditionally, the flute was played as a solo instrument but, by and by, it has been incorporated into the orchestra. It has also found its way into jazz music – right there with the saxophone and other similar instruments.

Getting the best flute for your needs takes time; you shouldn’t be in a hurry to decide on a particular one. The market has flutes for all levels, from beginners to professionals. It’s important to understand which level you are, so that you get the appropriate instrument. Another important consideration is the construction of the various parts of the flute, from the head joint to the foot joint. Are the keys well done? How is the mouth hole designed? The mouth hole of a flute works in a similar way to that of a saxophone, meaning the larger it is, the lower the tone, and vice versa.

Price

Flutes come in a wide range of prices, which vary from as little as $60 to $700, depending on a number of factors. The more budget-friendly flutes come with well-done keys that will provide good tones. The high-end flutes will cost you more, due to the craftsmanship involved in making them. These pricey flutes are mostly handmade and boast top-notch keys, some of which are covered in silver and even have caps for even distribution of the tones.

Still on pricing, you will find cheap flutes that will disappoint you, especially if you are a more seasoned player. Here’s why: the outside of the flute may easily chip off, shortening its life span. The flute may also lack quality pads, and this reduces the quality of the tone produced.

Features

Whether you are a beginner or a professional flutist, it’s important to take your time before deciding on a particular flute. Here are some key features to consider:

Type - The two basic categories of flutes are those that are side blown and the head-blown flutes that have a mouth at the top. Depending on your expertise, you may choose either of the two.
Size - Since the flute is a hand-held instrument, it’s important that it’s light in weight so that you can comfortably work your fingers.
Material - From the material used to make the keys, the pads and even the body of the hole, ensure that it will last you for many years.
Keys - The keys can have a padded cover or be left uncovered. For a beginner, the closed-hole keys are the best, since those that are open require a lengthy time to master.
Skill - In the market, you will find three levels of flutes: beginner/student, intermediate and advanced. Your choice depends on the level you are.

Construction and Design

A flute is distinctly comprised of three parts: the head joint, body and foot joint. Let’s start with the head joint, which is where you blow in air that goes through the flute, producing the tone. On the head joint is the lip plate, where your lower lip lies as you play. The lip plate can be curved or straight, but most importantly, it should provide you with proper stability as you blow in air. At the middle of the lip plate is the mouth hole where you blow in air – the smaller the hole, the higher the tone, and vice versa.

Moving to the body of the flute, you will find most of the keys. The keys allow you to alternate and control the flow of air as you play. Depending on the brand, you will find that the holes are either closed or open. The closed holes are ideal for beginners, since the open key holes take quite some time to master. The lower part of the flute, known as the foot joint, contains a few keys which vary depending on the type of lute.

The use of nickel-silver in the manufacture of flutes is quite common, since it’s an alloy, making it light but very responsive. However, silver is the most common material for making flutes due to its ability to produce a fluid tone, especially for someone who has mastered the flute. Silver is much heavier than nickel-silver, making it more ideal for intermediate and advanced flutes. You may also find flutes made of gold, which have a much warmer tone due to their much stronger projection.

Performance and Ease of Use

Some flutes require assembly; it’s pretty easy to put them together with the help of a manual, or as instructed by your tutor. Avoid holding on to the mechanism, since this may cause adjustments to the flute. Most brands provide you with a cleaning cloth to easily swab your flute, which allows it to last longer. The same fiber cloth may also be used to wipe off fingerprints that will smear the surface of your flute.

It’s best to store your flute in a case, which may be provided by the manufacturer; if not, you can readily purchase it from a music shop. When storing your flute, ensure that there are no accessories inside that could damage it. You may take your flute to a certified flute technician once a year to ensure that everything is in order.

What is the Best Flute?

A professional flute today comes in an overwhelming array of options to choose from. The kind of flute you need depends on your level of expertise, music tone and your budget. Let’s explore more pointers that will guide you in your shopping.

Our Top Choice

Mendini are the best selling flutes by Cecilio Music. Their flawless finish and high quality bladder pads make them perfect for teachers and students alike. If you prefer a clarinet by Cecilio Instruments, may we recommend the Mendini Pocketbook clarinet instead?

Mendini Closed Hole C Flute with Stand, Case, Cleaning Rod, Cloth, Joint Grease & Gloves – Available in 11 Colors

Mendini Flute MFE-S+SD+PB+92D - Nickel

Features

Cecilio Musical Instruments are loved by students and approved by teachers everywhere. Their products are handcrafted and have high quality standards at affordable prices. The Mendini Closed Hole C flute is excellent for beginners and practitioners. If you’re looking to get your kid started on an instrument, this flute is the perfect choice.

Priced economically under $100, the flute comes with all the bells and whistles. There is a flute pocketbook and a foldable flute stand that come with the flute. The flute has a flawless nickel plated body in a 16 keys closed hole design. The embouchure is undercut and beveled. This C flute also features an offset G and a split E key.

Take a look at some of the other features of the flute:

High quality double bladder pads and rubber key bumpers
The storage case is durable and is pro-deluxe plush-lined with nylon. There is a shoulder strap and zipper pocket accompanying the case.
The kit also has a soft cleaning cloth, joint grease, cleaning rod and gloves
There are several colors to choose from.
Any manufacturing defects are covered in a one year warranty from Cecilio Music.

With so many features at such affordable prices, the Mendini Closed Hole Flute is perfect for your child to get started on his or her flute lessons.

The Cecilio Mendini Flute Range has a lot of options from open to closed holes available for purchase, so go have a look!

Best Value

The Hallelu 200 student flute is free blowing, easy to play and excellent for beginners. If you are looking for a more expensive flute for a special performance, try the Hallelu HFL-300 with sliver plated keys to add that extra zing to your performance!

Hallelu Music Flute with Case, Nickel Plated Keys & 1 Year Warranty

Hallelu Music Flute HFL-200

Features

Hallelu Music specializes in making flutes for professionals and students. Highly recommended by teachers all around the world, the flutes are synonymous with the highest standards of quality, music and tone. The Hallelu HFL 300 student flute is free blowing, easy to play and quite affordable.

This flute is made keeping the beginner flutist in mind. The closed hole keys, C-Foot and offset K keys make the flute easy to play. The flute set comes complete with a durable carrying case, cleaning cloth and cleaning rod.

Some of the most noticeable features of the flute are as follows:

Nickel plated finish on keys
Seal tested for quality assurance
Italian Pisoni Double Skin Pads ensure clear sound
One year manufacturer’s warranty

Inspire the musician in your child with this affordable beginner’s flute.

Hallelu offers different options in flutes, so take your pick!

The Gemeinhardt Model 3 Flute is the best choice intermediate flute for professionals and students in their advance degree courses. If you’re looking for a more affordable Gemeinhardt flute for professionals, may we recommend the 2SP with Straight Headjoint?

Gemeinhardt Model 3OB Flute, Open Hole, Offset G, B-Foot, Silver Plated

Gemeinhardt Flute 3OB

Features

Gemeinhardt needs no introduction. The US based company is the world’s largest manufacturer of flutes and piccolos. The company makes musical instruments for all levels of musicians starting from beginners to professionals. The 3OB Open Hole Flute offers exemplary quality and sound. The flute is durable and perfect for professionals.

The Model 3 Flute is constructed in a four-post foot joint to ensure that the flute is strong. The embouchure hole has a unique design. Along with this, the flute features proportioned tone holes and pad cups which capture tones throughout every register.

Some of the other features of the flute include:

Power coined keys
Cleaning rod included
Standard Gizmo key for high C facilitation available on the flute
5 year manufacturer’s warranty

With its superior finish, sweet tone and reputable brand name, the Model 3 flute is the right blend of class, quality and professionalism.

Gemeinhardt has a lot of different flutes to offer. Pick one for yourself today!

The Yamaha 221 is an excellent high quality flute for novices and offers the best natural sounds for learning flute. For a more affordable model from Yamaha, take a look at the YFL-222.

Yamaha Silver Plated Key of C Student Flute

Yamaha Flute YFL-221

Features

Yamaha Corporation is a Japanese Multinational Conglomerate with roots in a wide number of sectors including musical instruments, electronics, power sports equipment and motorcycles. Yamaha Music Corporation produces some of the most highly regarded musical instruments, recommended by instructors and professionals alike. The 221 Student Flute is ideal for both beginners and intermediate players. Built with a superior finish and robust quality, the flute ensures natural and free flowing sound.

The flute is made up of durable nickel silver. Neoprene Bumpers used instead of corks increase the instrument’s durability and also achieves the best fit against the player’s body. The model is improved with other features such as a strong post design, easy to adjust screws and improved adjustment materials.

Some of the other features of the Flute include:

Closed hole keys
Undercut and beveled embouchure hole for sensitive response
Double bladder pads
Ergonomic key shapes for better handling
5 year manufacturer’s warranty

The Yamaha 221 student flute is worth the price and effort to master the instrument.

Yamaha has other great options for flutes if this one does not appeal you, so check them out!

The Glory Closed Hole C Flute lets you begin your flute journey with class, but without burning a hole in your pocket. For those looking for a more advanced and professional flute model from Glory, we suggest the Glory Intermediate C flute.

Glory Closed Hole C Flute With Case, Tuning Rod, Cloth, Joint Grease & Gloves – Available in 19 Colors

Glory Flute MUS267097 - Nickel

Features

When you are starting your musical journey with a flute, it’s obvious that you cannot spend a lot of money on your first flute, especially if there’s a chance that you might not continue learning. With Glory, you can put your doubts at rest. The brand is trusted by beginners worldwide. Their product range offers high quality instruments at economical prices. With the Closed Hole C Flute, you will be amazed at the quality that is combined with the affordability.

The flute is great for beginners and for practice sessions. It offers all the quintessential features that a beginner flutist needs to learn. The tonal quality is extremely good and the finish is beautiful. The flute features a 16 key design with closed hole and is made from authentic cupronickel.

Take a look at some other salient features of the flute:

High quality airtight and water resistant leather pads
High grade needle spring used in the flute
Lightweight
The flute set is complete with case, tuning rod, grease and gloves
Available in several colors

If you are looking forward to learning flute, then Glory’s Closed Hole Flute is perfect for your first lesson.

Become a flutist with Glory. Choose your flute now from their wide array of choices!

Get the Best Flute of 2018!

The flute is a magnificent instrument to begin your musical journey. It is fun and rewarding to learn. We hope our guide made it easier for you choose the best flute!

Our Top Choice

Mendini by Cecilio Nickel Plated Flute

Best Value

Hallelu Music Nickel Plated Flute

Gemeinhardt Model 3OB Flute

Yamaha Student Flute

Glory C Flute With Case