My first flute was a Gemeinhardt student model: closed holes, C foot, offset G. In my study and teaching, I have come to discover that the Gemeinhardt student models are extremely sturdy, standing up well to the accidents young musicians tend to have (dropping them, etc.). My student Gemeinhardt also survived marching band (where lots of mishaps can occur). I currently play a professional Miyazawa, but the student Gemeinhardt was an excellent, reliable tool for learning the foundatins of music and playing.

I will not tell you about other brands, because I do not have the same experience with them.

Good luck,
Gumdrop