Ode to David Copley's Eb Delrin flute

Irish Flute
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So I’ve had a Delrin Eb flute from David Copley for a little over a month now, and I have to say it’s the most fun I’ve ever had playing a flute. I used it in a few “flute and drum” sets at our local Friday night and it was a cracker. Loud as can be and just a hoot. It’s super easy to play, well in tune, and the square blowhole lets you do just about anything you want with it. David originally sent along another head with an elliptical blowhole (that’s what’s on my Olwell) as well. It was a tough decision, but I ultimately went with the square one and judging from the ease with which I was able to switch back and forth between the Olwell and the Copley the shift isn’t too much trouble.

(I will be honest and say I don’t have a lovely tone; I’m a rough-and-ready player who plays a variety of instruments, so more refined embouchures than mine might be more bothered by the difference)

For you materials types, the flute is a totally utilitarian satin/matte-black finished Delrin. No rings (though David says you can get them), no decoration other than the Copley & Boegli stamp on the head. There is an end cap, but it’s nothing too fancy. The flute is much thicker-walled than my beloved D Forbes and looks to have nearly as big a bore. It’s a shade heavier than the Forbes but still well balanced. Basically, if feels substantial. It’s got the “Rudall break” between left and right hands (yippee), and has no vent holes in the foot but I shudder to think how loud I’d be if it did.

Anyway, the biggest test was that the sets I played on the Eb were the sets where people seemed to listen, tap and clap the most so I figure it was probably the most audible (we’re in a corner of a crowded pub with no amplification) – but it was just fun to play really wild, too. I can see why Eb flutes should be illegal in most states; they really are addicting!

I’m so grateful to David for listening to my whingeing about wanting an Eb flute but not being able to justify wooden D flute pricing for something that’s more for my own personal enjoyment (playing along with Dervish and Dave Sheridan, etc.). However, I’ve now played this flute out and it won’t be the last time – I’m hooked! Thank you, David!

P.S. He was threatening to make an E – look out, A tunes! :smiley:

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I’m glad somebody got one of these and I’m not surprised you enjoy it so much. I’ve got the D with square embouchure and it’s the perfect amount of flute for my playing. I talked to Mr. Copley about having an Eb body made. It’s something I definitely plan on doing. This review hastens that a little more.

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Maybe we could get him to consider a delrin F while he’s at it?

My Copley delrin D is with my son at college. I’m glad he’s enjoying it, but I miss having it around as the flute I could leave assembled and just pick up and play any old time. When he brought it home at Thanksgiving I was amazed at how good his tone was after only a few months.

I’ve got a blackwood (no slide) D/Eb set from Dave, and like both very much. The Eb is a blast to play, no doubt about it.

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I’ve got a loaner blackwood F from Dave and in a word, it’s AWESOME. You think Eb is spritely, try his F flute. When this flute gets passed around to be played, everyone grins from ear to ear, it’s that much fun. It’s the most infectious joy producing flute I’ve had a chance to play. You’ll throw your F whistles away after playing this flute.

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Here’s a good word for his C flute, as well :thumbsup:

He made me a keyed one. This is my first keyed flute and I’m finding the whole keys thing really difficult. The voice of the flute is so beautiful, though, that I took the leap and am now taking lessons-- tackling the keys one key-signature at a time. :smiley:

Back to the Pub for me. But I overheard people saying good stuff about Dave Copley and had to add my 2 cents. Lovely guy! :heart: