Inexpensive (Relatively) 4-6 Key Flute

Aodhan · Post by **Aodhan** » Tue May 28, 2002 4:03 pm

Hey all-

Looking to get a gift for my g/f birthday, and I was wondering what recommendations there are for a 4 to 6 key Irish flute?

If possible, any that are a little smaller in key stretch (She is 4'9", and has small hands).

Price range is anywhere from $200 to $800 or so.

Thanks in advance for your opinions!

Aodhan

eskin · Post by **eskin** » Tue May 28, 2002 4:50 pm

I think she may have problems with many of the keyed flutes optimized for Irish music, the hole spacing just isn't friendly for small hands. In the price range you're looking at, I'd suggest you check with Michael Cronnoly about getting a Rudall-Rose acrylic flute with 4 keys and have him offset the left hand ring finger a bit so it will fit her hands.

I speak from experience, I've tried several flutes that really didn't fit my small hands very well, hate to see you buy a flute that she can't play.

Cheers,

Michael

ChrisLaughlin · Post by **ChrisLaughlin** » Tue May 28, 2002 5:51 pm

In that price range? Gilles LeHart. Superb flutes. Great price.

Dave Parkhurst · Post by **Dave Parkhurst** » Wed May 29, 2002 12:03 pm

I think McGee makes a flute drilled specifically for smaller hands. And if you're willing to spend an extra buck or three, you can always ask for a Saccama model, which uses keys to cover the furthermost holes.

Loren · Post by **Loren** » Wed May 29, 2002 12:06 pm

Yeah Dave, but last I checked, the wait for a McGee flute was 2 years.....

Loren