Teacher: Mr. Guy Saunders A.L.C.M.

The fife is an excellent introduction to the flute. The fingering is very similar, as is the mouth position (embouchure) but the fife is smaller, lighter and considerably cheaper than the flute.

I tend to start all pupils on the fife and move them onto a flute within 1 to 3 terms depending on progress and the size of the child.

I am biased but the flute really is the best instrument of all! A wide range of sounds,bright, lively, joyful, to melancholy and haunting. Opportunities to play in orchestras, jazz groups, chamber groups and flute choirs.

Like all woodwind instruments the keywork is delicate and flutes need treating with great care. Every 2-3 years flutes should be serviced to keep them working at their best. Learning is hard enough without having to deal with a poor instrument!

A service costs around £100.