An Irish flute is very delicate, hence extreme and regular care is necessary. One may seek information from where the flute was bought on the guidelines to take good care of it. Nonetheless, the following are some basic steps that one may do to the wooden flute on a regular basis.
No.1 Lubrication
A wooden flute’s holes are susceptible to outside moisture that can creep inside and might damage it. Lack of moisture may account for smaller holes than usual; the opposite goes for an excess of it. To mitigate this problem, proper lubrication is required. Apply enough oil on the holes to prevent too much moisture to creep inside the flute.
For the lubrication, it is recommended to use almond oil which is rich in vitamin E. This can be bought in drugstores. Natural oils must be used, not artificial ones.
Upon initial use, a wooden flute must be oiled at least once a week. Thereafter, it may be as less frequent as once a month. Better yet, an oiling tip from the manufacturer of the flute itself is best followed for optimum usage.
To properly lubricate the instrument, apply enough oil inside the holes and let is stay for a few hours. Clean the excess oil thereafter. The outside surface of the wooden flute may also be slightly lubricated.
No.2 Apply Oil on the End Parts
The end parts of the flute must also be oiled or greased prior to assembly. This will prevent any damage or dryness on those areas, which might be harder for you to disassemble after use. When necessary, the slide for tuning may also be lubricated.
No.3 Wipe Excess Moisture
Moisture may creep in the instrument after playing. To prevent damage, clean the excess moisture inside using a long rod and a wrapped cloth. To mitigate scratches on the wood, plastic rod is recommended.
No.4 Love your Flute
You show love to your flute by trying to play it and hone your skills as regularly as possible. A practice a day can make you an experienced flutist in no time. In contrast, if a flute remains stored and unmoved, the wood may crack or dry up. At times when you cannot play the flute, remember to store and handle it properly, away from the unnecessary elements.
No.5 Basic Troubleshooting
Difficulty in disassembling
The ends might be really stuck. Don’t force the ends to give way, try disassembling after some time.
The ends are too loose.
Wooden flutes typically have this problem. A short length of thread or tape should do the trick.
Flute not in tune
Like most other instruments, a wooden flute needs some conditioning before some serious playing. If it has been stored for quite some time, a faltering sound at first is normal. It should recalibrate after playing it for some time.
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