Alto Flute: an introduction to help you find your instrument

1. Alto Flute: an introduction to help you find your instrument The Alto Flute: Match Your Needs with Your Ideal Flute Whether standing center stage as a soloist or blending into an ensemble, the alto flute is an increasingly common member of the modern flute family. The alto flute is nestled between the c flute and the bass flute, and is pitched a fourth below the c flute, allowing its player to access a lower register. If you are considering purchasing an alto flute, here are some tips to match your needs with your ideal instrument. Determine Its Uses Consider where you will be playing the alto flute, and how frequently you will have the opportunity to let this instrument sing. The lower register of the alto tends to sound mellow and can create a soulful mood. The upper register of the alto tends to be bright and can project through textures as a piercing melody. Alto flutes are used in a variety of settings, so are useful to most every flute player. One of the most common settings for the alto flute is in a flute choir or flute ensemble, and it is also used in standard band and orchestra music. Alto flute is also featured as a solo instrument in jazz, film, and classical repertoire. For ideas on how you might use your alto flute, consider listening to a few great pieces. Some favorites include Jazz Dream for solo flute by Ali Ryerson, Atlantis for alto flute and piano by Gary Schocker, Juba for flute choir by Valerie Coleman, and is featured in Daphnis et Chloe in the orchestral settings by Maurice Ravel. Playing Comfort

2. There are three main set-ups in choosing an alto flute: straight headjoint, curved headjoint, or both. Straight headjoints are thought to respond more similarly to c flute as far as control of dynamics and tapered releases, however they can feel heavier since the reach is further. Curved headjoints offer ease to the hands and shoulders but require the player to become comfortable finding their ideal alignment. Many manufacturers offer the option to have both headjoints in one case; this is especially useful if the alto might be used in a flute choir or school with multiple players using it. The Material The material from which the alto flute is made can affect the weight (comfort), sound, and the overall aesthetic. Nickel, Black Nickel, Copper, Silver, Silver Plated, and Gold-Brass are a few of the material options available. Not only do they sound and respond differently, but some materials and alloys might require additional care. Aesthetically, some players may want the alto to match their primary flute, while others may enjoy the contrast in materials. Consider Your Budget Alto flutes come in a wide range of prices, starting around $1,900. When considering your budget, reference your thoughts of what settings and how often you will use it. To save more, consider pre-owned – altos tend to be played less frequently and are often in excellent condition as a used flute. For many shoppers, setting a realistic budget is the first step – getting the advice from one of Flute World’s resident professional flute players on brands and models within that price range is a logical second step. Try One

3. Alto flutes tend to be more unique from model to model and brand to brand. Try a few different models before you make your purchase. Find the flute that has the tone colors you want in your sound, fits your hands and arms well for enjoyment in practice, and fits within your budget based on how you will use it. The best way to find the perfect instrument for you is to trial them. Set up your Flute World instrument trial today!