Flute - can a 50 year old adult learn to play it well?

[DrHarriet]

Did recorder and piano in my youth. I also played the piccolo flute for 6 months or so as a kid.

How are my chances to master the flute?

Is there an instrument you would like to learn as an adult?

Being able to read music will be an advantage imo.

I would love to learn cello. Sadly I can't read bass clef despite having a piano and music around for the best part of two decades; the Giblets hacked their way through the tune a day books for years without assistance from their dear Mummy.

Cello is wonderful @FlibbertyGiblets.

I wonder if it's easier to get into the flute and produce a nice sound or if it's better to take singing lessons and join a good choir. Most choirs in our area are audition only and my musical confidence isn't very high.

Any other posters who have mastered or are planning to master a musical instrument as an adult?

I've been playing an instrument all my life in many different amateur groups, but I've met very few adults who have learned their instrument as an adult. Those that have often struggle with confidence in playing in groups - and that where all the fun is, there's only so much you can achieve practising at home and practising is quite boring.

Can you read music? That would definitely help. And there are adult beginners groups around that would help you.

If not, a choir would be great- try and find the right one to suit you as they range from the very serious to a bit of fun.

I wouldn't mind joining a choir as I love to sing and loved my school choir but I do worry about cliqueness so haven't looked into this yet.

The flute is a lot easier to learn and play than piano or strings. They're cheaper to buy as well.