I Apologize in advance for having 10 images like this. I’m not too sure how to make a link to a collection
I recently acquired these two flutes from a co-worker and was hoping get some information on them.
Both are fifes I believe. One has markings on it “London Improved Military Band Flute Bb”
The marked one has 6 keys and tuneable head cork. It has a large crack all the way across the head joint. I think the keys are silver, pads are leather..? Plus the very old leather carry bag.
The unmarked had a tuneable crown I’m guessing because there is a chunk of broken cork in the head joint with no crown. One Key on the bottom.
I would also be looking to restore/repair them as they are not in prime condition. I live in Edmonton, Alberta, CAN so the closer the repair the better for me.
Anyone care to enlighten me? I would greatly appreciate any and all help. I would like to tell my co-worker what I find out and see fi they are a part of his family history.
[Image non-links removed. - Mod]
[Edit] Sorry about that, I think I have it right this time…
Hello and welcome. I’m afraid we can’t see those images. You need to upload them onto an image sharing/hosting site, such as photobucket and the like, and then ‘share’ them once they’re uploaded onto that site. This will give you the img code to post onto forums such as this one.
Hi there you have two Bb band flutes as they are referred to on this board and elsewhere.
They are both made of cocus wood and nickle silver.
The detached metal bit is a “cheater”, designed to help beginners.
Though confused with fifes due to military associations, true fifes are distinguished by having a cylindrical narrow bore. These conical flutes replaced fifes in many military bands starting around 1870s. Guessing yours were made in late 19th early 20tg century.
Edmonton has a military base and regimental band associations from a quick look and also Orange Halls so it was likely used in one of these two contexts. Though my great uncle played one of these in a local parish hall band associated with his Catholic parish in the States so anything is possible really.
They are not worth much money. Probably repairs will cost more than the flutes value. You could have a go at repairing them yourself.
I have a piccolo marked Improved London D that is a good player, someone suggested to me these low priced “improved” models were made by Barnett and Samuel but I’m not sure how they got that impression.