I don't have a lot of spare money, so can't go for an expensive flute, but I don't want to waste my time on something that's not playable either.
I was wondering about something like an M&E flute because they're in a price range I could afford now. They have a good sound on youtube videos from what I can tell and seem to play well (not knowing anything about celtic flutes really, but knowing a little about flutes).
Reviews seem to be generally positive.
Can people tell me if that's correct? Are they a good starting place? Are there better options in a similar price range? (If so, can people please tell me what the pros/cons of those other options are, as compared to the M&E flutes?)
Secondly, I was wondering whether it's better to go with polymer or wood? I live in a hot/variable climate (Australia) and I know nothing about caring for a wooden flute, so I thought a polymer type one might be a safer option to begin with, but are they inferior in terms of sound/playability, etc? What do people think?
Finally, what do people think about keyed vs keyless for beginners?
Obviously I've played a keyed flute for many years, but it's quite a different thing to celtic music and I'm trying to get the hang of moving my fingers quickly enough... I guess I wonder whether keys might just get in the way of learning at this stage.
But then I don't want to limit my options if keys are essential in the long run.
(Though if I like playing and continue at it, I'd certainly be hoping to buy a decent flute in a few years and could get a keyed one then - as long as keyless would suit the first few years of playing).
If anyone can help with all my questions, I'd be hugely grateful.
I was wondering about something like an M&E flute because they're in a price range I could afford now. They have a good sound on youtube videos from what I can tell and seem to play well (not knowing anything about celtic flutes really, but knowing a little about flutes).
Reviews seem to be generally positive.
Can people tell me if that's correct? Are they a good starting place? Are there better options in a similar price range? (If so, can people please tell me what the pros/cons of those other options are, as compared to the M&E flutes?)
Secondly, I was wondering whether it's better to go with polymer or wood? I live in a hot/variable climate (Australia) and I know nothing about caring for a wooden flute, so I thought a polymer type one might be a safer option to begin with, but are they inferior in terms of sound/playability, etc? What do people think?
Finally, what do people think about keyed vs keyless for beginners?
Obviously I've played a keyed flute for many years, but it's quite a different thing to celtic music and I'm trying to get the hang of moving my fingers quickly enough... I guess I wonder whether keys might just get in the way of learning at this stage.
But then I don't want to limit my options if keys are essential in the long run.
(Though if I like playing and continue at it, I'd certainly be hoping to buy a decent flute in a few years and could get a keyed one then - as long as keyless would suit the first few years of playing).
If anyone can help with all my questions, I'd be hugely grateful.