HANDMADE FLUTE/PICCOLO SERVICES

Handmade flutes, from piccolos to bass flutes, require maintenance to maintain their value. The full potential of the instrument can only be utilized by servicing the flute professionally, who can repair and adjust the instrument according to the requirements of professional flutists. A handmade flute that is regularly and well maintained will retain its value excellently. When buying a used handmade flute, it is a good idea to have the instrument inspected by a flute repairer. In case of damage, a professional can provide an estimate to your insurance company and repair the damage.

Inspection and adjustment

Before an important performance or rehearsal and between basic maintenance, the instrument should be adjusted. Adjusting the pads and mechanism makes the instrument stable, the instrument resonates effortlessly, the playing feel remains optimal and the service life of the pads is extended. During the adjustment, the instrument is inspected and parts are replaced with new ones if necessary. Depending on the amount of playing and the instrument, adjustment is recommended 1–3 times a year. One working day is reserved for the adjustment.

In basic maintenance (so-called C.O.A. or clean, oil and adjust), the instrument is disassembled, and in traditional mechanisms the locking pins are also opened. The parts are inspected, repaired or replaced if necessary, and cleaned. The metal parts are lightly polished by hand, the pads and mechanism are carefully adjusted, and the mechanism is oiled. Finally, the instrument is tested and fine-tuned. 2–3 working days are reserved for basic maintenance and it should be done at least every other year.

If the pads are at the end of their service life (4–10 years, depending on the pads and the number of plays), a full maintenance is recommended for the instrument. In addition to the basic maintenance procedures, in a full maintenance, all wearing parts (pads, felts, dampening material, and corks) are replaced, the toneholes are leveled if necessary, the mechanism is repaired, and every effort is made to get the instrument in a condition comparable to new. An overhaul can use original spare parts recommended by the manufacturer or modify the instrument according to the player's wishes. A full service also includes a follow-up inspection and adjustment within 6 months of the completion of the full service. For a full service, the instrument must be in the workshop for approximately 7 working days.