 The Fingering Forum
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Author: Ian P
Date: 2002-08-27 04:55
Hi everyone!
Wow! I never knew that WFG had a forum, too:)
I'm starting to do my pre-purchase research as I'm soon going to be moving up into the advanced/pro realm and have just a few questions. Actually, I could probably save a lot of bandwidth by just asking if there's a site I can go to that has concise, comprehensive info on things like rounded tone holes vs. non rounded, ribbed construction vs. non ribbed, etc.
Also, if anyone wants to offer up some opinions regarding Yamaha, Keilwerth, and Yani tenors in a rock/jazz setting... do feel free:) I know: In the end, it's *my* preference that matters. But it never hurts to hear from others, nonetheless:)
tnx!
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Author: Steven King
Date: 2002-08-28 01:11
This Information is Quoted form J.L Smith & Co.
This artical is from a flute book about flutes. But i think this information appliys to most instrument.
Soldered or Drawn Toneholes
Most flutes are manufactured with drawn and rolled toneholes. The process involves punching a small piolt hole in the body tube and using various types of tools to form the tonehole by pulling metal up from the tube. Then the top is milled flat, and the top of the hole is rolled off. Once a flutemaker sets up for drawn holes, it is a ery efficient and economical way to produce the holes.
The soldered process involved machining the actual hole, then soldering it to the body tube. Once mounted, the hole in the tube ism illed out. Makers use different materials to solder the holes. Most older flutes are soldered with lead enabling easy repair of toneholes, but lead usually requires frequent atttention as leaks form once the lead deteriorates. Silver and gold solders are used today as a response to the joint leakage problems, but repair of bend tubes and so forth are much more involved. Good news/bad news.
Soldered holes are indicative of the highest order of flutemakers because of the extra time element involved. Flutes with soldered holes usually reage upwards of $7500. The discustion then is of less interest to those buying instruments in lower prices reanges since it is not an option.
People do not always agree on the sound difference between the two. This is partly because one cannot easily compare an instrument with soldered holes and the same exact flute with drawn holes. In my experience, the drawn hole flutes play a little freer - with more abandon. The soldered holes flutes play with more reserve. Some view soldered holes as resistant and dark. This is often desirable. Sometimes not.
I've had a few individuals tell me they can feel the difference under their fingers, that the touch of the key to the tonehole feels more positive - more solid in the soldered hole. I personally don't feel it. Oh, well.
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