From what I can see on internet, Jupiter flutes cost $500+. Is there anything else that's less expensive? I suppose we could rent but I rather just spend 1 or 2 hundred and buy one for her to experiment.
Also, how do you know a flute is a proper size for a child?
Your welcome. Jupiter is the only makers to make smaller size flutes like that, that I know of. Anyone else know of any? You could always try getting a curved headjoint. Some makers offer that on a regular body flute.
<Added>
I don't think that you are going to find anything new for under $500 that would be any good. You could always try getting a used flute and try matching it up with a curved headjoint. You can't go wrong with anything by Jupiter or Yamaha. Those are my top favorites.
I began playing the flute when i was about 8 yrs. old. i rented a curved flute from a local music store. out of a magazine, i then bought a jupiter flute which was only $300. Try magazines at your local music store to order it.
$500 (new price) is most likely going to be the lowest price you will find on that particular model Jupiter flute even if you look through catalogs. Flute World is usually has the lowest prices and that is how much they are selling it for.
i started playing the flute at that age...maybe a little earlier and i was wayyy too tiny but i managed with a regular flute. at first i couldnt reach all the keys but eventually i got used to it. but like the others said used or rented might be the way to go if she is just trying it out.
Sometimes you can luck out on a search (*cough* eBay!) and stumble upon a curved headjoint that can be fitted (for about $20) to just about any flute to reduce costs.
Youll know if it's the right size if your child seems to look comfortable.
also, it's pretty rare to find these puppies used. You may just want to invest in the new instrument and sell when she outgrows. Just make sure she doesnt trash it.
That auction says it hasn't been used in a while and may need adjustments but curved headjoint flutes seem to be a bit hard to find. Shipping cost to USA= 43EUR = $68.27 and the auction is currently at 60EUR = $95.26. Recently in the UK (I think it was) someone sold a Yamaha curved headjoint and softshell case (to hold the headjoint and a flute case) for $120-something + shipping. If I find more links for curved headjoint flutes (not the ones made in CHINA!) I'll post them here until notification of a found flute.
Ask about what they have in stock. A like new/near new and *properly set up* flute for $350 or so is just the ticket. I recommend offset G keys and a B foot if it's no more cost.(most players quickly want one if its offered) I like the Yamaha myself - tough and since music is required in all Japanese schools, they make them as easy to get a sound out of and play as possible.
Personally I do NOT think an open hole/offset G flute w/ B foot would be comfortable for an 8 y/o kid to learn on... I'd suggest something like this as my friend said that their Venus flute is made of surprisingly decent craftsmanship with decent headjoints *shrug*
Venus flutes are awful! I got one once to make into a flute lamp for my niece. The headjoint is the worst part on it.
I agree though with Suzie, the original poster is trying to look for a smaller flute that is lighter for her child. I would definitely NOT put a small child on a flute with a B foot.
searching...
