Buying vs. Renting a Flute

by Pam Murchison, flute teacher with Kathy's Music, LLC

Buying vs. Renting: What’s the best option for beginning flutists?

Private instruction is an investment in time and money.Acquiring a quality instrument is an essential part of flute study.  Here are my top five recommendations for entry-level flutes purchases (in no particular order).

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Jupiter 511S (MSRP $895)

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Yamaha YFL-221 (MSRP ($876)

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DiZhao Mini-Di Beginning Flute ($459)

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Viento FL 100 (MSRP $400)

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Trevor James 10XC (MSPR $950)

Used instruments can often be an excellent solution, when purchased from a reputable dealer. Hollis and GermannMusic in Castle Shannon has an excellent selection of used, refurbished instruments starting as low as $295.

Although you can find great deals on these instruments from Flute World, Flute Pro Shop, and the Woodwind andBrasswind, you may not feel ready to invest in an instrument during the first few months of flute study.

Another great option is enrolling in a rental program. Local instrument dealers Volkwein’s and Johnstonbaugh’s Music Center have terrific rental programs. For about $20 a month, you receive an 

instrument in excellent working condition, and all of your rental payments are credited towards the purchase of a new instrument, from the brands that the stores carry. This is how I started, and it’s an excellent deal for newcomers to flute study!