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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 music educator, and have a broad range of experiences as a performer. I also have experience with a huge array of flutes with any 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 (Valgon rings, Foster extensions, etc.) as well.
I'm very familiar with piccolo, alto, and other harmony flutes (including those in unusual keys, such as Eb flute, Db piccolo, G treble, Ab alto piccolo, Flute D'amore, 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, or answer just about any other flute-related query you can throw at me!
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. I also must decline to date instruments based on their serial numbers.
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 P = Politeness| User | Date | K | C | P | Comments |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lucian | 01/13/12 | 10 | 10 | 10 | Thank you very much for the thorough ..... |
| Jeff | 01/12/12 | 10 | 10 | 10 | What a great answer- this is an ..... |
| Karina | 01/09/12 | 10 | 10 | 10 | Thank you so much! This will help ..... |
| Holly | 12/23/11 | 10 | 10 | 10 | Thank you so much for the quick ..... |
| Mary | 11/26/11 | 10 | 10 | 10 | Mr Smith Thank you your answer was ..... |
Recent Answers from Herbert Smith
2012-01-12 Lip Plates:
Hello Lucian! You've got a good question here, and I'll be happy to help. In short, the lip plate is absolutely a necessary part of the flute, and it helps provide the appropriate distance between
2012-01-12 embouchure for Irish Flute:
Hello Jeff! Because all transverse flutes create sound in the same way (splitting the air stream on the edge of the embouchure hole sets up vibrations inside the instrument), the embouchure for most
2012-01-08 Purchasing a Step Up Flute:
Hi there Karina! It's great that you're being sure to test out all of the options available to you before making up your mind! That's the only way to be sure you like the flute you buy, so it's VERY
2011-12-29 New Flutes and Trilling:
Hello Helen! There are numerous flutes out there which have a solid silver lip plate and can produce some wonderful sounds! The real trick is to find the one that works best for you. We're all different
2011-12-21 Flute Upgrade!:
Hello Holly! First of all, let me apologize for my somewhat slow response! With the holidays upon us, things have been a bit hectic. I'm sure you can understand! Now on to your questions.... I
Answers by Expert:
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