to any woodwind players, esp. flautists: i've been playing the flute for the past four years, however it's my second instrument so i've worked up the grades pretty quickly. i got a distinction at grade 8 on the piano and i'm taking my 8 flute in a year's time. i bought a yamaha 311 flute when i started, which is an intermediate flute with a solid head and plated body. however, should i upgrade to a professional flute before my grade 8 or after? my flute teacher says it's possible to do an 8 on my yamaha then i would have to buy a new one, but a professional series help me to develop my playing for my grade 8?

It depends on how much you want to do on the flute, as it's only your second instrument. In any case, I think I would wait till after grade 8 before upgrading. You can decide in what way you want to continue developing (play in an orchestra etc.) then and buy a professional flute that will fit your needs.

I posted a similar question on the flute forum as my daughter currently uses a Yamaha 211S student flute and has just taken grade 6. We are wondering if/when/how she should upgrade and are interested in any advice on this topic.

Thanks for replying. I was told that a 211S would only be recommended up to about grade 5 standard, which is why I originally bought the 311 instead, so I would definitely upgrade right now. It depends on how far she wants to take her music really - you have the same problem as me! If she's not likely to do a grade 8 or diploma, go for an intermediate flute, eg one of the Yamaha 300 series or the TJ Cantabile. If, like me, she wants to go further, watch this space!! (Though I was told if you are going to buy a professional flute, go for a Miyazawa). I just don't know whether to do it now or later!