Keyed Flute Advice Needed

Irish Flute
1

Hey everybody,

I realize I may be treading on dangerous ground here, and I apologize in advance if I (unintentionally) violate any forum rules or ruffle any feathers, but I need some advice on selecting a keyed flute. At the moment, I am quite a ways down on the Olwell keyed waitlist and was hoping to get another instrument in the interim - either to play until I get the Olwell or to keep permanently. After much research and listening, I think I have it down to either a Murray 6-key or a Grinter 6-key (I was looking at 8-keys but doubt the need for or frequency with which I may use them).

Therefore, I was wondering what you people think of these two instruments and their relative merits. I am not a large person (5’ 7.5" with an 8.75" thumb tip to pinky tip span on both hands) and am looking for a flute that is comfortable to play, expressive, but capable of some but perhaps not overwhelming power. I know that the Murray and Grinter are very different, but if anyone can provide some advice or opinions on these instruments and whether they are good choices for the type of instrument I am looking for, I would be very grateful. Also, if there is another post already on this particular topic (I certainly may have missed it searching through prior threads) and someone knows of it and can direct me there it would be much appreciated.

Thanks in advance for any help you can provide.

All the best,

Michael

2

There are many used flutes now on the market, which is likely a function of the present economy. I’d take advantage of this and buy an existing flute. In that case, you might consider lengthening your shortlist somewhat and then buying what is or comes available at an attractive price.

3

Hi:
The position of the hands while you are playing are much more important than the size in order to reach the keys properly.
I have a 6 keyed Murray flute and I think it has much more projection than the Grinters I tried (may be it´s me, not the flute), but I think the key work in Grinter flutes is better than the Murray, in terms of easy playing, at least for me.
My advice is try to test the flute before you buy it, may be you can contact with some Murray and Grinter owners. It´s better not to by in a blind way.

Best Regards and good luck with your choice.
S.

4

You might also want to consider an Eamonn Cotter 6-key. His flutes are in sympathy with the Olwell tonal aesthetic, and are well made. Cheers,

Rob