During Denny’s last days, I asked him what he wanted me to do with his flutes (I have NO musical talent whatsoever). He wanted them to be used and he asked me to sell them. Now, after a year, I am finally able to try to fulfill his wishes.
I have no idea what these flutes are or what they are worth. However, I know that this forum was special to Denny and I am trusting that his friends will assist in figuring out what to do with them. I am posting photos and ask that if anybody is interested in the flutes, please respond here. I am confident that the collective group can help guide me into finding the right owner for these flutes.
I can take more photos. I tried to capture maker’s marks, where I could. Again, I know nothing about flutes so you’ll need to guide me in taking additional photos.
Some of the flutes are his PVC flutes (he said suitable for playing around the farm and for whacking naughty horses). I know these aren’t “serious” flutes but he sure did have fun with them. He almost always had one in his belt loop.
I do know that he made lovely music, especially with the wooden ones.
Thank you, in advance,
Adena Ray (who still misses the big guy every day)
The first one I know well. It’s a Dave Williams, graciously re-headed by Patrick Olwell to replace the damaged original. I owned it, and later sold it to Denny to help fund my D/Eb Noy. It’s a good 'un.
African blackwood. Keywork and foot ferrules, being original, are nickel silver. I’m pretty sure that the barrel is also original, but if not, then its ferrules, and definitely the replacement head’s lining, lip plate, and ferrules are sterling.
IIRC, Patrick told me that that was the first lip plate he’d ever done.
Adena, you might want to contact Blayne Chastain, who has taken over Doc Jones’ online Irish Flute Store, and ask if maybe he can handle the whole lot on consignment as an estate sale. Blayne is a long-time member here, who I’m sure remembers Denny.
Thank you all. I have emailed Blayne and hopefully he can assist. I am so completely out of my element with these that it would a huge relief to be able to entrust Denny’s beloved flutes to somebody who knows. Because I clearly do not.
Adena,
Blayne is a good guy who will handle everything and make it a lot easier for you. I’ve already dealt with him in his “new role” as owner of the IFS and I’ve been pleased. He will treat you very fairly.
all the best,
Paul
Adena,
I also give a nod to Blayne, know him personally and been playing at his session last 5 years. He’s a good businessman with good heart and will help you have these special flutes adopted by very good homes.
Russ
Thanks for the nods friends and Adena, would be an honor to help. I’ll go checking for your email now - I imagine it came in on the main email. My direct email is blayne@irishflutestore.com Talk soon.
The last pic is the Casey Burns A/Bb/C flute I sold to Denny several years ago. I occasionally rue the day I let it go, but the big flutes just gave me too many hand problems.
Denny was a friend to all of us. I remember during my first few months on C&F it was often Denny who would send me a PM once in a while when he could tell I was struggling with a flute or whistle concept. I also owned Friesians once upon a time, then moved on to Holsteiners when I decided to ride instead of drive. We had many great chats over the horses.
We here at C&F will also make sure you get a fair price for these instruments. There are some excellent flutes here. I’m sure some of Denny’s magic still lives in them and I can use all the help i can find when it comes to flutes.
