Don't remember exactly that, Charlie, but it wasn't very long. I started lessons in the summer of 5th grade and the school orchestra played a concert in October......

I just started a student who plays flute in Middle School Band. She has had 6 lessons and now has 8 tunes, sort of. I wouldn't ask her to perform in public, because she is shy to begin with, and nervous still about the instrument. If you are used to performing, you should be able to do at least a couple of tunes in public after a few weeks if you practice.