If you’re looking for your first or next alto flute, you should know what alto flute brands to look for. Then, you can find an instrument that meets your needs.
There are tons of alto flutes out there, and it can be hard to determine which is the right one for you. So read on to learn about some popular brands to get your search going.
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Pearl
I have to start with the alto flute brand that I own, which is Pearl. The company makes a few different models, and each has more or less silver than the others. Because of that, the altos are also at various price points.
Overall, Pearl alto flutes are pretty affordable. You can choose to buy any of the three models with a straight headjoint, curved headjoint, or both. If you’ve played a Pearl flute or piccolo, you may find Pearl altos are easy to play.
The ergonomic key layout can make practicing a bit more comfortable. And the models come with the cleaning supplies you need.
Jupiter
Another one of the more affordable alto flute brands is Jupiter. Like its flutes and piccolos, its alto flutes are great for beginners and students. I played on one a bit during college, and it felt pretty easy to get a sound on.
These alto flutes come with either or both headjoint styles. They’re great for use in a flute choir, but you can also play one as a soloist. If you’re on a tight budget, you may want to test one out.
Trevor James
Trevor James is probably best known for its alto and bass flutes. Like many other companies, this one has a silver-plated alto flute. But the brand also makes a nickel model and a copper alloy model.
I tried one of the TJ altos before I bought mine, and it was pretty easy to play. However, it is a bit more expensive than some other brands. The different materials can also drive up the price, but that may be worth it for some people.
Di Zhao
Another one of the best alto flute brands is Di Zhao. Like the other brands so far, this company also makes C flutes. I haven’t played a Di Zhao alto, but I know someone who has, and the instrument sounds great.
You can choose between a silver-plated and solid silver model. While both instruments aren’t the cheapest for their specs, they’re still quite affordable. If you have and like a Di Zhao flute, you may like their low flutes.
Gemeinhardt
Gemeinhardt is a great flute brand that makes a range of flutes. The company’s alto flutes come in silver plating and nickel options, so you can get the look and sound you want.
I haven’t played one, but I’ve been in ensembles with people who have them. The alto flute sounds pretty good and seems easy to play. Like many other models, you can get them with a straight or curved headjoint.
Altus
If you’re looking at more expensive alto flute brands, you may want to consider Altus. This is a good option if you play the alto flute a lot and are looking to upgrade to a new instrument.
You can choose the right headjoint style for you. Unfortunately, it only seems to have an ergonomic left-hand key layout with a straight headjoint. If you get one with both styles, the straight may be uncomfortable.
Yamaha
Yamaha also has some of the best alto flutes on the market. When I was in college, I got to play an alto from this brand, and it felt pretty good. You can get it with one or two headjoint styles, depending on your preference.
Unlike other altos, this one features brass as the main material. It can help you get a nice sound, and it works well for playing in a group. But you’ll need to save up for it if you want to buy this model.
Miyazawa
If you’re looking for yet another more expensive alto flute model, check out Miyazawa. These alto flutes can sound great, and they may be easy to play for people who have Miyazawa C flutes.
I haven’t played this brand myself, but I’ve heard a lot of good things about it. If you want to upgrade your current sound, this is a good model to try. You may find out it’s the brand for you.
How to Choose From the Best Alto Flute Brands
If you’re trying to decide between a couple of alto flute brands, you’re not alone. Here are a few things to think about to help with your decision.
Try Multiple Altos
It may seem obvious, but you should try any alto flutes you’re considering. The design and feel can differ between players. Also, alto flutes aren’t as standardized as C flutes, so some brands may suit you better than others.
Trying the instruments for yourself can help you determine which is the best one for you. Then, you can make sure to buy an alto flute that you’ll want to play.
Consider Straight and Curved
If possible, try both straight and curved headjoints when testing alto flute brands. You may think you’ll prefer one style, but you might find that the other style is more comfortable.
Of course, you can buy an alto flute with both headjoints. However, they’re different enough to require more dedicated practice on the style you will use for your next performance.
Think About Where You’ll Play
Another thing that can help is to figure out where you’ll play the alto flute. This can help you determine how much you expect to play it. If you’ll only play the alto flute occasionally, you may want to go with something more affordable.
On the other hand, if you want to specialize in the alto flute, you might want to buy the best alto flute you can afford. Then, you’ll get more use out of it if you play it in many places.
Determine Your Budget
You should consider how much money you have and want to spend. This can quickly narrow the list of alto flute brands you consider. But you should also decide if you’re willing to finance your alto flute.
Then, you may be able to get a more expensive model, and you can pay it off over time. You won’t have to wait as long to save up the money. So think about all of the other factors when setting your budget.
What Alto Flute Brands Will You Try?
When shopping for an instrument, you have a lot to consider. For better or worse, there are quite a few alto flute brands, and I didn’t cover all of them in this list.
Whether you want something affordable or can invest a bit more, you should look at a few brands of alto flutes. Then, you’ll be able to get the best instrument for you.
Do you want some alto flute music to play? Buy the transposed version of the Telemann 12 Fantasias!