My E and F sharp in the high register are always sharp. I know that this is inherent in some flute (if not generally)but I am not willing to opt for split E as I understand that this can cause inconvenience when it comes to fingering.

I thought I was over blowing before but it is still sharp no matter how careful I am with my blowing. If not due to over blowing, can this be due to the brand of flute that I am using? I am using the Yamaha 311 model.

Please share with me any technique or alternative fingering that may possibly help this problem.

Another thing that I want to add is my C sharp in the middle register. My fingering knowledge is very basic and my C# seems too empty. Any suggestion how to put a little color to this note?

I am not willing to opt for split E as I understand that this can cause inconvenience when it comes to fingering.

Tessa,
I do find the split E a bit of an inconvenience as do some others. You still finger the high E the same, but it is that bar that sticks out that I find to be a bit of a nuisance. Perhaps I just could never get used to one, or just didn't give it long enough. I guess I never wanted to because I have never liked them in the first place. IMHO, there is no need for a split E if you have good enough control of your embouchure. I personally, really don't know any professional flutists that have them on their flute. I do know that Galway is having the split E removed on one of his newer flutes.

I have this Omnibook written by Trevor Wye. I have been practicing the Tone part on high register for quite sometime but I still can't figure out whether I am improving or it's just that my ears are beginning to be sensitive as what he predicts happen to some students.

He also believes that split E is more of a harm than help in long term. But to me, I will not spend money on it as it stops me from learning a good technique in tone improvement. Thanks.

It sounds like you are on the right track. I love his books and find them very helpful. Like you suggested, chances are your ears are becoming more sensitive to these things and will continue to. Good luck with it.

Tessa
These are often difficult notes to play in tune, lower the chin which will lower the angle of the air without making the tone stuffy, for the C#, put down several fingers on the right hand to darken the tone

I have been considering lessons but I am thinking that maybe I will try to finish this Trevor Wye's set of books first before doing that. The two flute teachers that I spoke to ask for a fee and schedule that is a little bit way out of my range. And believe me there is no much competition here in my place when it comes to flute teacher. Now I can do scales in all register and sound pretty acceptable.

It's only that I met this lady who was kind enough to let me try her handmade Powell flute. I sound kinda different there. Her flute's pretty responsive especially in the high register. I want to sound like that but I can't afford that Powell model. So Micron I think I will have to seriously consider a teacher. Thank you.