I use piper’s grip, and i discovered that i can’t play keyed flutes without changing to normal grip. i much more prefear piper’s grip over normal one, i feel more confortable. Now, what should i do?
You can do pipers grip and have keys as well, it’s just that the keys set up for traditional hold won’t work for pipers grip. Talk to a few makers and see what they have to offer. Make it clear whether you are pipers grip in both hands or only one.
Interestingly, flutes set up for pipers grip are perfectly playable by players using traditional grip. The opposite is not true.
Left-handed pipers grip is my favourite. Makes it very hard to test the flute when you’ve finished it! But it sure tells you why the player wanted it!
Terry
The Seth Gallagher flute is set up for piper’s grip,
including a right hand Bb touch. In fact I have
one for sale. Seth G is principally a pipe maker,
so no surprise.
Interestingly, flutes set up for pipers grip are perfectly playable by players using traditional grip. The opposite is not true.
so maybe makers should collectively decide to start making flutes set up for piper’s grip ![]()
What is it that’s giving you trouble?
I use piper’s grip and I haven’t had a problem yet with a keyed flute, block or post mounted. I play a Lehart 6-key. I do have short fingers so that might be something. But it is easier to play on a post-mounted flute than a block-mounted flute. The only key I had some trouble getting was the Bb key. It’s certainly doable but takes a bit of shifting. I’ve got a RH Bb key at the moment and I’m finding that it’s no easier to hit than the LH Bb. But again, I have short fingers so that may be the problem.
As Terry said, if you’re looking to buy a keyed flute talk to a few makers. I’m thinking I would like to have a Bb key set up like a short F key. There’s a picture of a Reviol flute that has just that and I’d love to try it.
What is it that’s giving you trouble?
on the right hand the fingers thouch the long F key, so that i can’t use it well, and also it’s very uncomfortable. same problem with the left hand and the C nat key (long one for right hand), but even worse. the Bb key is just impossible to reach (my thumb pushes the flute toward my lips, so it’s on the outer part. if i change it’s potition the flute falls down)…
Hmm. I’d have to see your grip and hands, Othannen, to get an idea as to why you’re having trouble. I use the so-called “piper’s grip”, myself, and the only key I can’t use is the Bb. No big deal, as I seldom need that note, and if I do, I just crossfinger it. All other keys, no problem.
And with that bit of less-than-advice, no, I’m not gonna post a clip. ![]()
Yet. ![]()