Chris Norman-made flutes

[Thalatta]

Hi does anyone have - or has anyone played - a flute MADE by Chris Norman? They look gorgeous, and I would imagine they are, being made by him. Anyone know anything about them: prices, quality, etc.? Here's the link: http://chrisnorman.com/flutes-made
Shane

[s1m0n]

I've never heard a thing about Norman as a fluthier.

Excelling in one field is difficult enough. All I've heard is of him hiring other makers to copy his famous boxwood Rudall. It's possible hat he's bought a lathe & learned to turn, but I'd be startled if that was the the case, to tell the truth. And if he had, no matter his prowess as a musician, I'd be startled if he was also notable as a maker. What have you heard?

If he's merely endorsing flutes made by someone else, I'd be much less surprised. Plenty of famous flutists have done that, starting with Charles Nicholson.

[jemtheflute]

It is fairly well known that Chris Norman has trained in flute making at least partially under his friend Rod Cameron, the doyen of period flute reconstructors, and is endorsed by Rod. But I can't recall having yet read any reviews of or comments on any of his instruments.

[dunnp]

Chris is indeed making and sent me a detailed price list of many varied and interesting models when I enquired. There were also several photos of his work on his website.
There is also on article on Robert Bigio's site in which he discusses his making.

[tin tin]

In a word, his work is superb. A friend of mine has a Cameron 8-key, and when the head cracked, he had Chris make him a new one. It sounds fabulous and plays wonderfully--better than the head it replaced. (And Cameron flutes are pretty great to begin with...) It has a wider dynamic range and is tonally more complex. Plus, it's a perfect match for the rest of the flute with the wide engraved silver rings and wooden sleeve over the tuning slide. Top notch.

Here's the article dunnp mentioned: http://www.robertbigio.com/norman.htm

[s1m0n]

Well, thank you. It seems I've learn something. All the best to Chris. From the flute-playing POV, the more makers the merrier.

[RudallRose]

Chris' flutes are indeed very good. He's had a whirl of information and instruction from a number of sources, notably Rod Cameron and robert Bigio, and to some extent Forbes Christie.
chris opened a lovely little workshop just behiind his home in Lunenberg, Nova Scotia, just down the lane from the beautiful old school where he hosts his annual Boxwood festival.
I got to play some of his early work and even then it was turning out nicely.
Are they top-notch flutes? That's a question for each player to deduce, but i'm sure his work improves with each flute.
hope that helps.

dm

[Thalatta]

Thanks everyone, that's all very helpful. I was wondering if anyone had any photos?