I am currently borrowing an Alto flute from a local middle school (I'm in high school, using it for a flute sextet for solo ensemble next month)
I can't compare it to other alto flutes as its the only one I've ever played, but its pretty good. The only problem I have with it is that it has a straight hj and its so big and I'm pretty petite (I'm 5' tall, lol) so my left arm is like, almost straight and my right pinky pretty much cannot reach the C key very well..
But I had absolutely no problem just picking it up for the first time and playing it, aside from playing low C.. but that was more because the key wasn't shutting all the way.. or my pinky was hitting the Eb key. Also the higher notes (like G right on top of the staff) and above don't have the best quality sound wise (kinda compare it to a cello or viola playing high notes) but I'd guess thats probably true with alot of alto flutes as their purpose isn't to play in the normal flute range.. It has a pretty good low register, although that could be me as I have a really good low register on my normal flute as well.
Re: Jupiter Alto Flute 09:55 on Saturday, March 14, 2009
I and my friend Ariadne are considering the option of purchasing two of these. You just confirmed what we discussed this week. (Patrick: I'll give you details privately)