Hi, I got a flute from Ebay since I`m interested in learning. It has 16 holes including the trill keys and the duplicate one, a split E mechanism, and a C foot. Is that okay for a beginner flute? I`m 13 by the way.

Anyway, I borrowed a few books from the library (due to lack of music stores that I know of) and I found this really great book that shows you the hand positions and the keys and has a fingering chart. Right now, I`m not sure whether to go to a tutor or learn by myself.

On the other hand, my friend has this supposedly wonderful piano teacher whose wife is a flute teacher and I`m considering learning from her as well. They charge $30 for 45 mins and I don`t know if that`s a fair price or not. We live in NYC, so I think that has something to do with it. My friend`s teacher is Zhiliang Yu, if any of you have heard of him, please tell me.

Can you guys list the pros and cons of learning by myself as opposed to getting a teacher? Thanks.

I know that I taught myself flute but then again I also play two other instruments.

There is so much you can learn being taught by a tutor that books alone cannot teach you.

Surf the internet for lesson teachers....that is how most of my students found me. You will find many out there that are like me and are at reasonable prices.