Has anyone played a partially lined (french style) Olwell?

Irish Flute
1

Has anyone played a partially lined head (french style) Olwell ?

If so, how are they? Do you notice a difference from fully lined or all wood flutes? Are they somewhere in between (as one might guess)?

Thanks for any info!

-Brett

2

Hi. Yes, I have one, on a Pratten-based Olwell. I love it because to me, it has more of a “wood-like” sound. Also, it is lighter in the head end and I much prefer that for balance. Patrick said that a major difference is volume - it doesn’t honk as loudly as a flute with lined head joint. So if you like to really be heard in sessions, it might not be for you. I’m not sayng that it’s too soft though, it has plenty of volume potential.

The tonal difference and possibilities were what sold me. You really need to try both types side by side to get a proper comparison. I spent a few hours at his shop. He’s really accomodating and nice about that.

Cara might chime in, she played my flute a lot at East Durham & loved it. She said the tone was “complex.”

Heather M.

3

I have both-- a lined head and barrel and an unlined head. The unlined is darker, more reedy… yes, woodier. I love it especially on my C body.

The head with the lining is a bit brighter and more focused. Perhaps clearer. It lacks the overtones of the wood head. I’m not sure which is louder. Patrick’s flutes, with lined or unlined heads, are plenty loud.
Sometimes I thnk the unlined head is louder, though I might be blowing a bit harder to make the sound clearer. The unlined head has a wonderful “dirty” sound, like an old Rudall.

Get both. After a while you can sell the one you don’t like and not lose a penny.

4

Can one get an additional C body to fit the D flute head?

5

The answer is yes. And if you do get a C body I’d recommend getting a keyless. Most of the C sessions are quieter and more laid back. Lovely, actually.
Not only can you use the C body with the D HJ and foot, but you can also get an Eb body that will fit.
I’m not crazy about playing in Eb sessions, but for for solo or outdoor gigs the Eb is great.

6

Thanks for the info. Much appreciated.