I will not be taking any exams for a couple of years or so, but all the same it's best, I feel, to ask now so I can start saving!

My current Flute is a Gemeinhardt. It says 2ESP S/E H00217. I've had this Flute since I was seven and a half (!) and it still plays well. I am intending to take exams at University. I currently play at grade four standard- at what grade would I need to upgrade my Flute?

I've posted a similar question in the flute forum and received some helpful replies which may be of interest to you also.

QUOTE (AuroraFairy @ Nov 29 2004, 10:29 PM)

I will not be taking any exams for a couple of years or so, but all the same it's best, I feel, to ask now so I can start saving! My current Flute is a Gemeinhardt. It says 2ESP S/E H00217. I've had this Flute since I was seven and a half (!) and it still plays well. I am intending to take exams at University. I currently play at grade four standard- at what grade would I need to upgrade my Flute?

Well you could upgrade when ever you want! Although it is recommended by most specialist shops to have upgraded by about grade 5. There are plenty of posts about this in viva flute! You can find out more information here and here and here!. Plenty of light reading there for you!

There isn't a specific grade for when you have to upgrade your flute, but most people upgrade when they are about grade 6 or 7 or when their flute isn't sufficient for your standard. Ask your teacher about it.