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- Herbert Smith
Flute/Expert Profile
Expertise
I can answer questions about almost any flute-related topic. I have trained professionally as a flute repair tech and and music educator, and have a broad range of experiences as a performer. I also have plenty of experience with flutes of every level from a huge variety of manufacturers and built with every imaginable material or specification, and can comment on the quality of various instruments, as well as guide people through the flute-buying process. I'm willing and able to discuss various flute gadgets as well (Valgon rings, Foster extensions, etc.).
I am also glad to offer advice on how to approach difficulties within pieces of music, offer teaching tips to those who give lessons, provide suggestions for repertoire, as well as answer just about any other flute-related query you can throw at me! I'm also quite familiar with piccolo, alto, and other harmony flutes (including those in unusual keys, such as Eb flute, Db piccolo, G treble, etc.), and have experience building professional quality head joints.
Please note, however, that I am not an appraisal service, and will not provide estimates of value. Please do not ask me about the value of your flute.
Experience in the area
I'm a professional repair tech with years of experience, and a veteran high school band director. I've maintained a successful studio for private flute lessons for many years, and have performed professionally in just about any imaginable venue.
Education/Credentials
I have bachelor's degrees in music education and performance from highly regarded universities, and have trained with one of the best flute techs/flute makers in the US.
Average Ratings
Recent Reviews from Users
K = Knowledgeability C = Clarity of Response T = Timeliness P = Politeness| User | Date | K | C | T | P | Comments |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rachel | 11/13/09 | 10 | 10 | 10 | 10 | Thank you so much for the accurate ..... |
| Josh | 10/13/09 | 10 | 10 | 10 | 10 | Very happy with response. Thank you very ..... |
| Don | 09/28/09 | 10 | 10 | 10 | 10 | Again, an excellent viewpoint to ponder and ..... |
| Don | 09/27/09 | 10 | 10 | 10 | 10 | It was obvious to me that Herbert ..... |
| DJ | 09/11/09 | 10 | 8 | 10 | 10 | Herbert, thank you very much for your ..... |
Recent Answers from Herbert Smith
2009-11-13 New Old Stock vs. A Stock vs. Seconds:
Hello again Rachel! In my opinion, you should go ahead and buy another Yamaha 221 so that both of your children have one. They're excellent quality flutes, and a used one in good shape can be found
2009-11-12 New Old Stock vs. A Stock vs. Seconds:
Hello Rachel! These terms can vary from retailer to retailer, and when you find a flute you're interested in, you'd be best off asking the seller what their particular definition of these terms are
2009-09-27 Alto flute:
Hello again, Don! I'm glad you found my first answer helpful! While my experience may not match up exactly with yours, I don't find any particular difficulty in playing my straight head for over
2009-09-25 Alto flute:
Hello Don! Great questions....I think I can help, and hopefully you'll be able to find a great alto! Firstly, yes, there is indeed a difference between a curved headjoint and a straight one. That
2009-09-10 flute features:
Hello DJ! Welcome back to the flute! I'm sure it will provide you many hours of enjoyment! To answer your question, here's a breakdown of the most common options found on modern flutes: The Split
Answers by Expert:
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