I have a keyless Ormiston and have been very happy with it. I’ve played Olwells, Grinters, Murrays, also McGees, etc. and I think the Ormiston compares nicely. Around here most flute players show up with Olwells. He’s not that far away. I’ve never been intimidated by those instruments in a session - maybe by the players - but when I’m on the thing honks along nicely and actually has a sweeter sound to my ears.
But mine requires a very focused embouchure. If I’m off then it’s really off. It’s the instrument I’ve learned on, though, so I’m happy for that. When I play an easy blower I can really blow the hell out of it and I wonder if I would’ve been able to if I’d started with something easier. Who knows. Other people have had a hard time playing my flute; it takes some getting used to. But, at least for his keyless flutes (because that’s all I have experience with) I give two big thumbs up. I’m saving up for a six-keyed Grinter but that’s just because I want a little more variety in my flute arsenal. But I’ll keep the Ormiston too.
Chas, thanks for the insight. Do you like it (the Bleazey)? I wood want the R&R model in blackwood, and for about $400 that’s not bad. What do you other guys say about the Bleazey’s and their sound? How would that compare to the indestructable Seery?
Yep, I hope you’re still enjoying them. I love the Bleazey flute. I have the Rudall model in boxwood. I was looking for two things in a flute: easy to blow/play, and the creamy sound of boxwood. It’s a very easy flute to play, with a good strong bottom end and not too too difficult to get into the third octave, with a warm mellow sound. I still think of it as a beginner’s flute, though; I suspect if I get into IrTrad playing that I’ll probably graduate to a flute with a bigger sound and more growl, but that may be a long way off. I will certainly consider one of Phil’s Pratten models then.
RE: Sweetheart Flutes - They can be anything from fantastic to quite lame, you really have to play before you buy. Most I’ve tried in stores were not so good, or merely OK, so I never thought much of them until I played Jessie’s Ralph Sweet flute, which is amazingly good - even more surprising because it’s got multiple crack repairs and (I think) it was originally sold as a second, Is that correct Jessie?
Anyway, Sweet flutes are hit or miss to be sure, but there are certainly some great deals to be found if you get a chance to play through a bunch before buying.
Kevin, thanks for the comment about lined heads. I have to believe that if you take care of it, well fed and cleaned, that a lined head will be okay and if it cracks, it cracks. I would prefer a non lined head but have an offer made.
Also, I notice that other notable builders, Grinter being a fine example, has lined heads. Is the true of Kevin Crawfords flute(s)?