McGee Flute Question

[dow]

Has anybody had a chance to play a Grey Larsen Preferred?

@From McGee's Website

Grey Larsen Preferred

This is the smallest hole model flute I make and came out of a collaboration between US Irish flute player Grey Larsen and myself in April 2003. It’s based on his original Firth Pond & Co flute, made in New York in the middle of the 19th century. It’s a delightfully easy flute to play, reminiscent of the pipes or whistle in agility and economy of air. It would suit anyone who, like Grey, values crisp ornamentation highly. Despite the small holes, the flute produces a very impressive volume of sound. The small holes and close spacing also make playing easier for those whose fingers no longer move as quickly or surely as they would like.

You can see a full report of our work together at an interesting collaboration.

I’m still pretty new at the whole flute thing, but I’m thinking that, when I eventually get a wood flute, that the smalleh hole size of this model might suit me better. What do you think of this design? How does the tone (volume, projection, color) stack up against the other “standard” designs (rudall/rose, pretten, etc.)?

[Cathy_Wilde]

I only played one for a bit, but it was really nice. Like all Terry’s flutes, very in-tune and consistent. Terry’s keywork is terrific, too. Nice and solid. And like the McGee Rudall Hugh described, quite free-blowing. Much smaller fingerholes than my McGee Pratten, needless to say!

I’m not a big fan of the short foot on the model I played – I like the balance afforded by a longer foot – but that’s just a personal preference. And it certainly suits Grey.

[wolvy]

I own one of these flutes and I like it quite a bit. Terry makes a nice flute. He was a joy to work with. This flute is wonderful to play. In large sessions, however, it tends to get lost. If I ever switch to another flute, it will be to have something that honks a bit louder. I have found this to be a great flute to learn on. I got one with two keys.

[Unseen122]

I have play a similar style Flute which I did not like I felt the bore was way too small and t had no projection whatsoever this was the Sweet Firth Pond which is based on a very similar Flute. I play a Rudall usually but on some days it doesn’t seem loud enough. It is all opinion though you might like it a lot I say try before you buy even if you are not close to any places that sell them go to a session and ask if you can try anothers Flute or wait until the next C & F gathering. From what I hear Terry makes one hell of a Flute so if you like the Smaller Bore and Holes you will love the McGee.

[Wormdiet]

The real deal (Firth/Pond) certainly is not a wimpy flute in the hands of a capable player. .. I’d imagine Terry’s resembles the original more than it does other modern flutes.