I have a Sweetheart already. I don't know whether it's me or it, but it is not reliable enough for concert work. Sometime it plays beautifully, at other times it doesn't play well. I need something less finicky.

Yes, I know, if I practiced constantly, this problem might go away. That is not going to possible in the world as presently constituted.

Ella, thanks for the info on Ormiston flutes, but I don't want to order a flute. If the flute's not made yet, I can't try it out.

Any other suggestions - either about purchasing or about improving my consistency in playing?

By the way, I will be in London soon (merely changing planes) and will have half a day free.