jose luis,
I also live in a VERY dry climate (desert ; single digit humidity is common!). I have often wondered about the effect of the dryness on my pads.

Does anyone have input on this? Does it make any technical sense Micron?

I have the same problem too! I'm glad that I'm not the only person with this problem.
Actually, I've noticed that if I practice my flute everyday then I can produce a good sound. And if I skip my practices for a few days, I will have trouble hitting the notes above the high F( the one with leger lines).
I am wondering if anyone have tips for high notes, like the high A. The sound I make usually sound more like a high E instead of a high A.

yes yes the 3 octave notes!! especially F# and G#!! i guess you just have to maintain a fast jet of air...and i have a hissing sound too!! it's so annoying..i tried turning in the flute a bit..and it improved..any tips on da hissing sound? my low notes seem to be having this hissing sound..

Do you two have a private teacher? It is really hard to tell you on line without being able to show you.
Jen cluff has a really nice site that covers a lot of that. She even has some pictures to help out. Just do a google search on her and you will find it.


<Added>

Here is her site.
http://www3.telus.net/Garry_McKevitt/

She is the sweetest person and VERY knowledgeable and eager to help anyone. Now there is a person I would like to meet!