Flute Finisher - Part 2

In our last post, we took a closer look at the role of the flute finisher in the manufacturing process.  After the finisher receives his/her flute kit, there is a methodical, organized series of steps that are taken to finish the flute.  This is important to keeping the process consistent and ensuring quality.  Flute finisher Karl Kornfeld shared the sequence of steps that he takes as a flute finisher:

1) Inspect the body and keywork -- correct polishing as needed.  Signature and Conservatory flutes will come to the finisher polished but may need corrections.  For custom flutes, bodies and keys are polished by the finisher.

2) Make sure the tone holes are level and inspect the undercutting.

3) Fit the headjoint and footjoint to the body.

4) Fit keywork to the body to ensure a smooth and quiet action.

5) Install springs on body.  Signature, Conservatory and Custom flutes all use 10k white gold springs.

6) Install pads in keys.

7) Install corks.  Corks are all hand-shaped by the finisher.

8) Shim and adjust pads to ensure an air-tight seal and proper key adjustments.

9) Have the flute "played in."  There are professional flute players at the shop who are given the flute by the finisher at this step.  The "play in" is a step that helps the pads and adjustments settle.

10) Send flute to another finisher for a peer inspection.  Make corrections as necessary.

11) Have pro flute player perform a customer "stand in."  In this step, the player evaluates the flute and then sends it back to the finisher to make any necessary corrections.

12) Clean and send to customer.

The finisher's job involves many important steps -- and finishers recognize the responsibility they have as the last people to touch the flute before it goes to the customer.  Supported by a great team of peer finishers and players, they are able to make sure the flute is just what the customer ordered!

 

Springs installed

Key pads installed

Inspection before stand-in test by pro player

Pro player tests and evaluates