tradlad123 wrote:
I recently bought a new Blackwood flute (a month ago), and about 2 weeks ago moved to a slightly damper place (around 5-10% increase in humidity).
Yesterday noticed that the mid section is a little tighter than usual when assembling it.
It is not too much just a tad bit, but I want to be cautious and seek advice on whether I should be worried and do something preemptively or this is normal.
Thanks!
If this is a new flute it would be getting a little tighter as it absorbs moisture from playing. And the added humidity in your environment could be at play here as well.
Keep following your maker's advice for the break in period for their flutes. It's been awhile since I started fresh with a flute, but playing for short periods and swabbing are important for many new wooden flutes. I think some makers suggest a week or two before you can play for hours on end.
Even if it is just a new to you flute following the same pattern of playing, swabbing and resting the flute would be wise.
Wood does swell and shrink a bit. The trick is keeping it under control.