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Ocassionally it is advisable to have your instrument checked by a professional repairer to make sure that everything really is working properly and that there are no problems waiting for you 'just around the corner'. I often have players coming into my workshop wanting their instruments overhauled because they 'don't appear to be working as well as they did', it is often amazing that they can get a note out of them! (So there are cases when a 'workman can blame his tools'!) As a general rule I would advise that a flute be given a general service every two years. This should result in the instrument performing reliably and ensures wear to the mechanism is kept to a minimum. I also recommend that you read my advice on flute care. I offer three types of service: |
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Check-over, Oil and Adjust
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This is the traditional 'put the instrument back to working order' type of repair. It involves ensuring that all the pads are sealing properly and that the adjustment is correct between linked keys. The fitting of the joints is checked and adjusted if necessary and the sealing of the the head joint cork inspected. The instrument is given a general clean and dust off and then oiled whilst assembled. Suggested interval - 1 year |
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General Service
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The instrument is totally stripped down and cleaned. Pad sealing is checked and any torn or worn pads are replaced. Dents and scratches are removed as far as possible. The old oil is fully removed and the keys re-oiled and adjusted. Suggested interval - 2 years |
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Full Overhaul
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This involves putting the instrument back, as far as possible, to 'as new' condition. It is totally disassembled, any end play (sideways mechanism movement) is removed from the keywork and all pads are replaced. This is over and above the work of a 'general service.' Suggested interval - As required (2 -30 years! Dependant on the condition of the pads) |
| Sounds great
- what now? |
Please contact me to arrange an appointment. |