- Made in France in 1970
- Silver-plated maillechort
- 0.012″ tubing
- Soldered tone holes
- Closed hole
- Pointed keys
- Offset G
- C-foot
- Weight: 384
- Embouchure: 10.16 mm x 12.32 mm
- Emcouchure height: 0.216″
- Headjoint sounding length: 143 mm
- Sounding length: 590 mm
- Traditional scale
- A=440-444 Hz
This flute is a pleasure to play. It’s very responsive and has a large, resonant sound right off the bat. The sound is earthier than that of traditional Louis Lot flutes of the late 1800s and early 1900s. The flute can take lots of air, letting you dig into it and “get your hands dirty.” It’s reminiscent of Bonneville flutes – slightly textured but with a French glow to balance it out. The sound is also consistent in all registers. The low register is easy to play and can achieve incredible resonance. Dynamics are also easy to control
The flute features soldered toneholes and pointed keys. It also has a more ergonomic offset G and closed holes. Some professional doublers might prefer this flute when they need to switch instruments quickly, going back and forth between them. Some flutists also prefer this flute’s ergonomics for various reasons. There are also examples of professional musicians requesting closed-hole flutes with offset G. (See Haynes-Schwelm 3364.) So, regardless of the specs, this flute will give you a professional-quality sound.
The flute is pitched at A=444 Hz with the head pulled out at 1/8″ – 1/4″. It also plays well at 442 and 440 Hz with the proper headjoint placement. Regardless of the pitch, the scale is remarkably even and reliable in both the left and right hands. No awkward adjustments are required, as you might find with older flutes.
The headjoint was likely shortened by a previous owner. There is also minute damage to the headjoint tenon (see photo below). However, after testing out this flute, we didn’t hear any issues regarding its sound quality and response. The flute still has incredible resonance.
If you are new to vintage French flutes, this would be an ideal first flute because of its user-friendly scale, modern pitch, and large French sound. The flute comes with its original case.
Price: $2,500
Sold as is. Sales tax applies to purchases within California. For inquiries on purchasing, please contact Gary Lewis.
