Would you recommend upgrading flutes for college?

by Becky
(Phildelphia, PA, USA)

Question: I intend to go to college next year and pursue music as my major. I've been playing a C flute since I started playing, and am just wondering if a B flute would help me out more in college.

I was also wondering if there was any way for me to make money off of playing over the summer? I've been looking for a job and am having no luck in it and I just kinda figured if I could do anything with flute over the summer not only would it give me practice for next school year, but it'd also be a nice way to make money over the summer.

Thank you

Becky

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Answer: It's great to have a flute with a B-foot, but I don't think it's as necessary as it was in the past. It used to be a real status symbol. Now many flutists are going back to playing C flutes. They like the lightness of the instrument and many think it plays better.

If you have a choice between getting a higher quality C-flute and a B-foot, I would go with the C-flute.

On the other hand, if you want that extra half step, go ahead and get the B-foot.

As far as earning money with your flute, is there the potential for teaching lessons? That's probably the most conventional way of earning money.

How about weddings? Flute music is great for weddings. Check with churches in your area.

Beyond that, maybe you can "think out of the box" for ways to earn money playing the flute. Perhaps you could play at an event and ask for donations--kind of like putting your hat or instrument case out and hoping money gets dropped in.

Maybe a couple friends could form an ensemble and play at a restaurant or a fancy bed and breakfast. Or you could play for free and put your cards out that have your name and phone number on them. State on the cards that you play for private parties.

Get creative and don't be afraid to ask questions.

Good luck!