I was wondering if anyone has played flutes made by Geoffrey Ellis. They look terrific and the sound clips are very nice.
I was curious when I saw here that Geoffrey was moving into making instruments geared more towards Irish music recently. I was aware of his NAF work. So I contacted him. And while I have not yet played his Irish style flutes I have recently organized a tour with Geoffrey for two of his low whistles. You can read about that tour over on the Whistle Forum if you like. Responses from the tour participants have generally been positive regarding tuning and playability. The tone of his whistles is pretty unique so most like the sound and a few not as much. While Geoffrey is only recently getting into the Irish whistle culture he has shown a willingness to learn as much about what players look for in an instrument and he has volunteered to redesign elements that aren’t up to expectations. So my experience working with him has been quite positive to date.
So I can say that Geoffrey’s workmanship is top notch. I have also exchanged a lot of email with Geoffrey and can share with you that he knows what he is doing overall. He knows how to make woodwinds. What I do not know is whether his flutes are well voiced for Irish style playing. (gotta try one I guess)
Geoffrey is a member on these forums. He is very approachable IME. I am sure he would welcome any inquiry you might have regarding his flutes.
Feadoggie
His flutes are excellent. One of the finest makers of Native American and rim blown flutes out there. I have been a player for many years, his flutes are some of the best.
Geoffrey has sold a few through the store. They were cylindrical-bore. His workmanship is top notch. He makes Low whistles too.
Doc