The Best Flutes for Beginners

Of all the musical instruments in the woodwind group that require patience, adaptability, and one pair of dynamite lungs, the flute may be the most special. Its sound is transportive, whimsical, and a true joy to hear. Like all instruments, it takes time to pick up and get comfortable with, perhaps even more than others; however, if you’re prepared to put in the work, a flute may be the most rewarding instrument you could learn how to play. If you’re looking to try your hand at the flute or are buying for a student learner, here are some options that we recommend.

Hitting All the Right Notes

These factors should guide your next musical purchase:

• Simplicity: A flute for beginners should be easy to use, of course, so it’s important that a beginner learn to play on a closed-hole flute. This kind of flute is best for new users because, as its name suggests, it covers the seals a flutist would otherwise have to plug with an open-hole flute, thus preventing air from seeping out and distorting the sound.
• Performance Features: A first-time flutist should take into account what’s being offered in service of their performance. Features like a beveled embouchure or quality padding not only ensure a better sound but allow for easier use on the flutist’s end as well.
• Accessories: It also helps to find a flute that tosses in a few luxuries for your money. You don’t want to lug around your flute in a tote bag, so you should definitely find one that comes in a convenient and supportive case. Consider a flute that also bundles a few necessities for you, like cleaning tools and oils.

Best Overall: Glory Closed Hole C Flute

A high-quality option available at a low price is unbeatable, and that’s exactly what you’re getting with the Glory Closed Hole C Flute. Everything you could want from a standard instrument for beginners, this closed-hole 16 key flute comes in a neat little package, with a free tuning rod, polish cloth, cork grease, and pair of white gloves included in the purchase. This flute’s cupronickel construction not only provides it with a reinforced frame, but it’s also the perfect material for pitch-perfect music-making. Additionally, it features a high-grade needle spring that should last the entirety of one’s beginner years.

Best Color Options: Mendini Closed Hole C Flute

If buying a flute for a youth beginner, it would make a purchase on their behalf all the sweeter if that flute was coated in their favorite color. With the Mendini Closed Hole C Flute, you can select from over ten shades as exciting as sky blue and fuchsia. This closed-hole C flute features an offset G key and split E key, as well as high-quality double bladder pads and rubber key bumpers that allow players to alternate keys easier. The embouchure on this flute is also beveled, making it easier to hold and play. This purchase includes a pro-deluxe durable plush-lined nylon covered case and a variety of care options, such as a cleaning cloth and joint grease.

Best Premium: Jean Paul USA Silver Plated Flute 

Another great option for beginners and intermediate players, the Jean Paul USA Silver Plated Flute not only brings what you need but delivers exactly what you want in one gorgeous package. With its French-style sculpted keys and an easy-to-use embouchure plate, this flute is consistently easy to play every time you raise it to your lips. Like other great models of its kind, it features a cupronickel frame to achieve a full-bodied sound. In terms of style, it’s hard to take issue with the silver-plated finish this flute is draped with. Additional features include a canvas carrying case, two cleaning accessories, and a helping of other key considerations that facilitate easy learning.

Also Great: Eastar EFL-1 Closed Hole C Flute

Nickel-plated and constructed with the utmost durability, the Eastar Closed Hole C Flute is another solid option for flute students. This is a 16-key closed-hole C Flute with offset G key and split E key, making it easy for beginners to learn and then hold onto well into their intermediate years, thanks to those additional keys. The advantage this flute has over others is the use of double sheep casing pads and NAS high-carbon steel needles for better elasticity, airtightness, and above all else, an overall improved performance. Additional features include a plush-lined hard case, a compact stand, adjustment screws, white gloves, and a cleaning rod and cloth.