Frequently Asked Questions

HOw often should I get my flute repaired?

It really depends on how often you play and the amount of wear you put on your flute. A general rule is, people who play frequently should get a COA every year and an Overhaul every 7-10 years.

why does my flute need regular maintenance?

There are many natural materials and moving parts on a flute. A head joint cork should be replaced every year, these can dry out and hamper your sound. The key mechanism has oil to lubricate the metal, when this dries out it can cause excess wear on your mechanism if the residue is not cleaned out and replaced.

I’ve Never had my flute repaired and it’s fine.

All flutes need maintenance, Higher end flutes have much finer tolerances and do generally require more maintenance. Also, flutes will gradually go out of adjustment and acquire leaks in the pads that the player won’t notice as they grow accustomed to it.

My flute has been sitting in the closet. What does it need?

Generally, a flute sitting anywhere for a prolonged time will need an overhaul. Even if the pads seem fine, the skin dries out while it sits there without being played and becomes brittle. Also, the glue holding on the tail corks and adjustments can become brittle.

What are the different types of pads?

I offer both felt and synthetic pads. Felt pads have a cardboard backing, woven or pressed felt center, and a bladder skin. They are used on all levels of instruments. They tend to be more durable but still only have an ideal sound life of 10 years.

Synthetic pads, Pisoni S2 and Straubinger pads, have a plastic backing, microfiber center, and a bladder skin. They are used on intermediate and professional flutes. They tend to be firmer and have slightly better projection. They can also have a little more key noise. These pads might wear out a little faster, but also have an ideal sound life of 7-10 years.

What do I do if my pads are sticky?

Unfortunately, sticky sounding pads are a part of playing the flute. The only ways to avoid them is to either not play the flute, or be able to blow purified moisture/air through it!

Since these are no options, there are best practices to reduce the incidents of sticky pads. Wash your hands and brush your teeth before playing. Carefully wipe down your flute after playing, and swab the inside thoroughly.

You can use cigarette/drying papers but you should always BLOT, never pull a paper out with a key closed as you can tear the pad skin (seen to the right).