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goldenflute
(5 points)
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I've been playing a Gemeinhardt for many years (although I started out with an Armstrong). But I keep reading about how wonderful Yamahas are (I do like their guitars, pianos etc). So I'm wondering if switching to a Yamaha might be a consideration and improvement in my sound. I currently play a Gemenihardt 3SHBO and I am happy enough with it, but is there something better to move up to with a comparable price? What might be a step up for me? Any suggestions?
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theflutist94
(44 points)
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If you're happy with the key mechanism of your Gemeinhardt flute, I would try getting a better headjoint. The other more experienced people here on 8notes most likely know some good brands you should try.
<Added>
If you just really want to switch though, then I would recommend getting a Yamaha 500 series or better. The 200-400 series all have the same headjoints, really. The only difference between the 200/300/400 series Yamaha flutes are that you can get a B foot, and there's more silver, which doesn't do anything significant to the sound of the flute.
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Plekto
(244 points)
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I actually have heard a good handmade Yamaha headjoint on a similar Gemeinhardt flute (my old student model from long long ago - heh) and even with a little impromptu tape to shim it in place, the sound quality nearly tripled.
My recommendation is to look into replacement headjoints first if you are on a budget. What they are doing with headjoints recently is amazing compared to even twenty years ago.
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vampav8trix
(221 points)
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If you want to get a different flute because you heard that it is better, try it first. In fact, try as many as possible.
This has been said many many times on this forum and it is true. Before you go out and spend the money on a new flute, try as many different ones as possible.
I once thought that I wanted a Yamaha. Then I tried a Sonari. Then an Altus. I tried a whole bunch and ended up with a Muramatsu. That's what ended up working for me.
Personally, I think that my Armstrong is worlds better than my Gemeindhardt.
That is just my opinion.
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Kara
(2852 points)
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I wouldn't bother trying to put a better headjoint on the Gemeinhardt because the mechanism on them are not all that great to begin with. IF you do decide to go for a nice headjoint, I personally would not go for a Yamaha head. There are MUCH better handmade headjoints out on the market that would be more worth the money. Just my two cents.
Also, I agree with vamp, go out and try other flutes. We can't tell you if you should change or not, that is entirely up to you. It depends on what level of playing you are at also. The Gemeinhardt may be sufficient and just fine for your level of playing right now. If you are at a higher level, you will know when your flute is holding you back and when it is time to upgrade.
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kaflute133
(42 points)
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i had a gemeinhardt for awhile and i use it for marching band now. im going to have to agree with what was said above. the mechanism on most (not all) gemeinhardts is a little shakey. id try a few different brands and see if you like them more. dont have your mind set on a yamaha. try muramatsu and things like that. you never know what youll like! good luck.
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Plekto
(244 points)
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I mentioned the headjoint because of how effective it is. The Yamaha in question and the Gemeinhardt were both mind and I was goofing around.
(obviously they don't come close to fitting - the Yamaha is quite a bit smaller diameter).
But if the Gemeinhardt is working fine, it can't hurt to try out a few better used headjoints at a local shop. Even stepping up to a handmade Gemeinhardt headjoint from a basic student level one is a huge difference.(and at $200-$300 or so used, a steal)
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Alieannie
(732 points)
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It's hard to offer advice if we don't know what your goals are and what your level of playing is. And saying you're first chair in band doesn't tell us much, as that's completly relative and subjective.
How many years of private lessons, if any? What etudes and studies have you done? What pieces have you worked on? What do you hope to do with flute in your life? Any competitions, counties, districts, etc?
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goldenflute
(5 points)
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I studied flute in college as my minor instrument. Back then, Gemeinhardts were "the flute" to play. Currently, I play at weddings, Church services, coffee houses and in a local ensemble. I'm happy with my Gemeinhardt but just wonder if there's something out there that would be exceptionally better in the same price range.
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mbrowne1229
(435 points)
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If you have the money to spend, why not upgrade?
Price range is what? Personally, I dont like Yamaha flutes and think theres much "more" out there. You know that you deserve the best you can afford, right?
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Alieannie
(732 points)
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There's a boatload of brands. You can sell your gemeinhardt or keep it for a backup. Trial flutes (blindfolded) and see if you discover a noticable different and if another listener hears a difference as well.
Where do you live?
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