Cornelius Ward - The Flute Explained§ 8. THE PATENT TERMINATOR AND INDICATOR.ON the termination of the column of air
above the mouth-hole of the flute, we have to remark, that the due
position of the terminator is another requisite, essential to the
correct intonation of the instrument. When the bore is of the just diameter and
proper taper, and while the slide The flute will not retain its intonation if
flattened below the pitch for which it is constructed; the
incorrectness, especially in the second octaves, increasing with the
increasing descent in pitch. By moving the terminator nearer to the
mouth |
The terminator of the patent flute is made
of silver, to avoid the decay, accident, and consequent alterations to
which cork is liable; and very simple means are provided to adjust
and indicate accurately, any necessary change in its position. It can
never be placed beyond its proper limits. The mode of action will be easily perceived
by reference to the annexed figure. It is only necessary to place the
ring Comparatively unimportant as this matter
may, appear, it is not undeserving of notice, especially as much
perplexity is often experienced from accidents or displacement,
without the means or the knowledge of the remedy. These accidents
cannot occur in the Patent Flute. The defects of cork thus employed we have already noticed; but in the usual apparatus, of whatever material, the terminator may easily be displaced; and even if right to begin with, does not perform its office readily, nor indicate its effect with precision. |
That we may be understood by the less experienced amateur, we must observe that a slight removal of the terminator from the mouth-hole confirms power and roundness on the lower notes, and that the converse motion gives ease and freedom to the production of the alto notes; and this without any such amount of alteration of pitch or intonation as may not be easily obviated. Talented performers, therefore, are in the habit of adopting one or the other of these operations according as their music varies from a low adagio to a brilliant alto variation. Again, the lips of some performers are not always in a condition to produce the octaves sharp enough: the remedy is indicated above; and while the desired alteration, in this and the preceding case can be effected with ease and certainty in the Patent Flute, it is impracticable on any other tuning-head. On these and other grounds, we think our Patent tuning-head will be found an important practical improvement. On, to The Wood of the Flute Back to the Cornelius Ward Contents Page Back to McGee Flutes Contents Page
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