The continual use of the word "professional" in ebay listings for various flute-like objects is an interesting paradox. It is being applied to instruments that are presumably the precise opposite of professional - unless it is argued that only a professional player has the chops to get anything out of them. What does "professional" in this context mean? Presumably it is intended as a reassurance of quality, which is a bit rich (judging from most of the correspondence on this thread). There is a new complication I have just noticed for the first time. Visit
http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/like/28190061 ... 1900615338 and you should see a listing for a four-part, "Irish", eight-key "professional" flute. But we have added reassurance in the shape of a Union Jack and the statement that the instrument is
"100 per cent British made". Well, I think it is intended as a reassurance - some may beg to differ. But is it true? Is this "professional" flute - selling for £89.99 - really a product of old Blighty? Is it the heir to the proud heritage of Rudall, Pratten, Wilde, Boosey et al? Perhaps somebody knows. I am too lazy to investigate.
Such a great history of TOP makers in Britain , the wording 'Irish flute' I've never been able to understand !