Specifically through the embouchure. Is it really possible that the flute still plays well? How expensive are they to fix?
Whether in wood or ivory, if a crack is properly reduced (closed up) and dressed to restore smooth surfaces, then there is no reason the instrument should not perform perfectly. It won’t/can’t be exactly as it was before it cracked, but there need not be any significant change in dimensions. Obviously cracks which don’t affect the embouchure are easier and less intrusive to fix. It is hard to get a really convincing cosmetic finish in ivory or boxwood, but in terms of practical function the results can/should be good.
I haven’t done ivory repairs myself yet, but I have some ivory jobs pending and I’ve read a fair bit about approaches and techniques. Jon Cornia has practical experience.
Hey Greendragon,
Years ago I remember someone had a friend that was a Dentist and they cleaned and filled the crack in an ivory head. I’m sure it isn’t the cheapest, but they were able to get a nearly invisible repair, because the Dentist could exactly match the color of the ivory.
Best of Luck!
Jon Cornia has used dental materials (UV cured colour-matched fillers) to do this. Hopefully he’ll be along to tell you about it…