Workshop

Frequently asked questions

What is a split E mechanism?

A split E is a small additional piece of keywork which the player is usually unaware of but automatically improves the intonation and ease of articulation of E3, of course not everyone likes it...

What is a Donut?

A donut is a small piece of metal soldered into the lower G tone hole with the aim of making the E easier as with the more expensive "Split E mechanism"

What is a C Sharp trill?

Not usually seen until the professional range of instruments, this key offers an easy high G to A trill as well as a middle B to C# trill and several other useful fingerings. There are several different designs and advice should be taken as to the most reliable mechanism.

What is my flute made out of?

Most student instruments are made of either brass (soft and hence less durable) or Nickel Silver ( a brass with added nickel to improve strength and resonance). This base metal is then coated in a thin (12-18 microns) of silver plating. To improve tone one may add a solid silver or solid gold A) headjoint B) body each step adding richness and more of a choice of tone colours.

Is Open hole better than covered hole?

Still a debatable point as to its benefits. Open holes require the player to actually cover holes (as with the clarinet). This is certainly the preferred mechanism of the majority of advanced players with the claimed benefits being; Improved hand position, increased volume and the ability to half cover holes for glissandos and other advanced techniques.

In line/Off set G?

Once again opinions are split as to the benefits. Boehm's original flute was offset but then the French preference was for in line,and this was The choice of most professionals however with most people having a G finger shorter than their A finger comfort and muscle stress is leading something of a change, and then of course there is the problem of binding keys on all but the pinless style mechanisms.....

To "B foot" or not to "B foot"(C foot) that is the question

A longer flute playing down to B instead of C. Not necessarily chosen for the additional note but for an increased mellowness of tone and the "high C facilitator" or Gizmo Key which helps with the production of C3.

Handmade, Semi Handmade, Commercial

This describes the design of the instrument and not necessarily the involvement of hand crafting Handmade keywork is keywork employing a strong pointed arm Appreciated for its attractive appearance and light, strong construction. A handmade body has tone holes added, soldered on to the body tube and hand undercut .The top of the tone hole is machine chamfered for a better pad seal. Commercial keywork is keywork with "Y" shaped cup arm which may be more easily bent affecting regulation. >/p> A commercial body has tone holes which are integral, extruded from the body tube with a rolled top.

Handmade Headjoints

The headjoint is where the sound begins and is responsible for a high proportion of the quality of your flute sound. Flute makers produce an instrument complete with a head joint which will sell the instrument and be compatible with the majority of players and their tonal expectations. Once an instrument is chosen most players will then look to a headjoint maker for a handmade head which in partnership with their particular mouth shape and style of playing, will produce the sound they prefer.