Question 1

Flute Maintenance

Accepted Answer

After playing, swab out your flute body and head joint, and blot the pads dry before putting it back into the case. It is best if you can do this after every time you play. Once a week, clean the head joint embouchure hole [chimney], and use Yamaha Powder Paper on the pads if you have issues with "smacking pads".

Swab out your flute body and head joint using an absorbent cloth on a cleaning rod or a flute flag. Cleaning cloth material vary in absorbency and hardness in fibre. Microfiber cloths are very absorbent [up to 60 times as absorbent as cotton] and soft. A small amount, like the "flag" on the flute flag is sufficient. Cotton, silk, and linen are also good. They are less absorbent so require a larger cloth. Silk and linen are harder fibres, and as such are less absorbent so a very large piece is required but will polish the inside better than any material I recommend. You can experiment and see what works best for you. On plated instruments, one of the softer materials may be a better choice.

Use lens towel from Lenscrafters or Pearl Vision Centre torn into pad width strips or Yamaha Pad Cleaning Paper to blot the pads dry. Insert the paper between the pad and tone hole and close the key so the paper is pinched between the pad face and the tone hole face, then release the key.

Question 2

Using Powder Paper

Accepted Answer

Pads begin to stick or "smack" due to the buildup of particulate on the pads' faces. The particulate comes from your mouth and small particles in the air that are captured by the moisture in your breath. When the moisture evaporates, it deposits the particulate onto the pad face and it builds up over time.

Question 3

Do you offer rush services?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we offer rush services for flute repairs. If you need your flute repaired urgently, please let us know, and we will do our best to accommodate your request.

Question 4

How much does flute repair cost?

Accepted Answer

The cost of flute repair depends on the type and extent of the repair needed. We offer competitive pricing and will provide you with a detailed quote after assessing your flute.

Question 5

Shipping

Accepted Answer

Packaging: Wrap your flute in its case, or case and case cover with bubble wrap creating a cushion at least 2" thick [large 1" bubble wrap is best but any bubble wrap will do]. Tape the bubble wrap securely with shipping tape, but don't over do it as we will want to re-use it when returning your flute. Place the wrapped flute in a 20" x 8" x 8" box, or larger.

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