I was checking out Eugene Lambs website and was intrigued by his Flutes, does anyone have one ? If so what do you think? Prattonish, Rudall or a hybrid?
It looks like his flutes have a somewhat short foot, prices as well as delivery times seem good. I noticed he recommends a silver headpiece over wood for his export flutes…
Ben
[ This Message was edited by: IrishBen on 2002-04-15 22:11 ]
Eugene does not simply “recommend” his flute equipped with silver plated head to overseas customers … he actually won’t sell them his all-grenadilla model. I had some correspondence with him about this and was unable to convince him that lack of humidity was no problem where I live (in Oregon west of the Cascade Range.) Eugene said he was familiar with my area, having visited here.
He also told me he though his metal-headed model was even better than the all-wood one.
If you are interested in buying a used Lambe I suggest you check this forum’s recent archives for “Jessie’s Flute Sale”, as she is selling one now, along with a number of other Irish flutes she has. I think she is asking $400.
You can get more information on these flutes by sending an e-mail inquiry to <JessOils@aol.com>
Good luck!
Mal
Hope this is not too late to be useful.
I have two of Eugene’s flutes, a keyless and a five key. I’d say they are closer to the Rudall end of the spectrum with modest volume and a sweet sound. I had a long conversation with Mary Bergin last summer and I can tell you that she plays Lambe flutes on her recordings with Dordan, and she is a passionate advocate of his flutes.
Both of my Lambes have his silver headjoint, and as far as I am concerned it is superior to his wood ones. The lip plate is extremely helpful in providing tactile feedback so you always position your embouchure correctly - you can feel where you are on the flute. There is nothing in the sound that is in any way not “woody”.
In service to full disclosure I should say that I have replaced the Lambe with a McGee Prattan as my “regular” instrument, but I doubt I will ever give it up. The Prattan’s main attraction is that it is much louder, with the power to stand up to accordions, but it is a lot of work. The Lambe is always sweet and easy to play.
I absolutely recommend his flutes to friends and family as a best bang for your buck for a beginner or intermediate player - advanced players don’t need a recommendation from me. The five key instrument simply can’t be beat short of spending US$1,000 more IMHO. I know his web site says he is not making five keys right now, but it is worth asking. He had suspended production because he was building a boat, and could not keep up with his waiting list without dropping something from the catalog. Last time I heard from him, six months back, the boat was nearly done, so if you ask real nice he may be talked into doing a five key for you.
Tom
[ This Message was edited by: Tamadden on 2002-06-04 13:25 ]