The headjoint must be considered the engine of the flute. It is the most personal piece of equipment for the flutist, and it is largely responsible for the tone and response of the instrument.
We have the artistry of the headjoint makers to thank for the strides that have been made in recent years towards the incredible level of performance that flutes now display. This is a result of very dedicated craftspeople and the com- petition that propels each to continually produce to highest levels.
Student instruments have also benefited from enhancements in design and manufacturing techniques used in headjoints. Often we hear comments that certain student flutes of today play better than professional flutes of yesteryear.
Many musicians that play on an “old favorite” flute are very surprised by how much better their flute plays with a modern headjoint. Most performing flutists regularly test new headjoints to see if a change can bring benefits.
There are so many aspects to headjoint making, all of which interact with each other. One can liken the design and building of a headjoint to the creation of a food recipe. Ingredients may include different angles, tapers, radiuses, various dimensions, and materials.
No single aspect of making a headjoint can be considered the key to a master- work. Rather, just as in a great recipe, it takes a careful and thoughtful combining of the ingredients and skilled hands to create a great headjoint.
While all the great headjoint makers may include some undercutting of the hole for example, it cannot be said that undercutting makes a great headjoint. If that were true, then salt would make a great chicken soup.
We are determined to offer the best selection of headjoints that can update your old flute, or personally tailor your new flute.