I’ve just bought a Merlin flute. It’s light, and has a good tone, however I’m having a hard time with the finger holes. I can’t seem to get good hole coverage, thus leakage and a poor sound. does any one have any help on this? any similar experiences? Thanks Vince
Hi, and congratulations! I don’t know anything about Merlin flutes, but my guess is that you’ll just have to gut it out – i.e., keep playing (long tones & airs can be good for this, and less frustrating than trying to jump right into jigs & reels or anything technical), and eventually you’ll streeeeeetch those fingers. That’s how it was for my “crossover” period from Boehm to Irish flutes. Ironically, now that I’m playing a Pratten model my nice polite Rudall & Rose hybrid seems too small – my fingers feel “fenced in”! Anyway, good luck, and hang in there! It’ll get better. 
Cathy,
Thanks for the reply and info. I’ll keep t rying to adjust. I currently play an M&E and enjoy it.
Thanks Vince
One thing I have found to be of great help in getting a good seal on flute finger holes is to use moisturizing lotion. Going from dry skin to moisturized can make a notable improvement.