If you're new to the flute, recently purchased one and are looking for possible repairs needed, or are renting one and want to make sure you know what to look out for you're in the right place.

Here we'll describe 5 common repairs needed on a flute, and why they need attention:

1. Pad Replacement

2. Cork Replacement

3. Key Adjustment

4. Spring Adjustment

5. Cleaning & Lubrication

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Below we'll explore what each of these repairs entail and why you might need them:

1. Pad Replacement: Pads are located on the interior side of each flute key. They're often made of materials like felt, goldbeater's skin, cork, and/or Gore-Tex and secured with glue. These provide a comfortable seal to each key, allowing you to close the desired hole. Pads wear out over time due to fluctuating moisture levels, overuse, or sometimes improper technique. Without a proper seal air can leak out from keys resulting in squeaks, and undesirable tone. It's common for pads to need replacement every couple of years if maintained properly.

2. Cork Replacement: You'll find corks in certain parts of the keywork and at the end of the interior of your headjoint. These corks ensure that the metal keys don't damage each other during play, and, in the case of the headjoint, makes sure your flute is in tune. Because cork is a natural material it can degrade and tear over time warranting replacement.

3. Key Adjustment: Keywork on a flute is a complex network of levers, screws, springs, joints, rods, and more. Regular use, and small impacts can cause your instrument's keys to fall out of alignment. If your pads seem like they're in good condition, but something still seems off, you may need a simple key adjustment.

4. Spring Adjustment: When you think of a spring you may envision something that looks like a slinky, but on a flute springs are much simpler, and with a hefty job. They're small metal pieces under enough tension to allow your keys to spring back up to their original positions after you push them down. If these springs go missing, are bent, or simply lose tension you may notice your keys flopping, not reopening, or simply responding differently. Let the professionals fix these.

5. Cleaning & Lubrication: Dirt, grime, and dust - oh my! Regular cleaning and lubrication of the body and keys of your flute will help prevent your keys from sticking and keep it running smoothly. Often technicians will wipe down and lubricate your instrument during major repairs. Use something like our Spiffy Kit to get the job done between adjustments.

Regular maintenance and repairs are the key to your flute's performance and longevity. Schedule your next repair!