Flute Repairs based in London

Our North London flute repair workshop offers a wide range of services to get your instrument back to good playing order, from small on-the-spot fixes to full overhauls.

How much does a flute repair cost?

This is often a question we get asked. With flute repairs, each instrument is unique and has to be assessed in person for an accurate quote. However with some key information you can get a ball park figure in mind.

  • How old is the flute?

    Typically, after 3-4 years of regular play the components will start to show signs of wear on the flute.

  • When was the flute last serviced?

    Over time and with exposure to moisture oil can congeal, plating can tarnish, and joints can become stiff. Having it seen regularly by a technician can keep on top of issues before they become more serious.

  • What level is the flute?

    Not all flutes are made equal. If your flute costs under £500 it is considered a student model, below £300 - a budget instrument. The components on these flutes are not built to last as long as on more advanced models, and the metal can often easily be prone to bending.

Our Services

Flute Repair With Hands

Full Playing Order

Starting From £85

The Flute will be thoroughly tested for leaks and vacuum pressure. This service Includes straightening bent key work, replacing touch corks, fitting up to 3 pads, and regulation adjustment.

Flute Repair On Bench

Full Service

Starting From £120

The Flute will have the key work stripped down, with the plating cleaned and polished up, and key regulation fully re-set, including changing perished key corks and up to 3 pads.

Flute Repair Picture

Full Overhaul

Starting From £250

Our Full Overhaul, is a complete and thorough, mechanical service of the instrument. All pads and corks are changed, the keys are machine-polished, with the instrument play tested for tuning.

Flute Repair FAQs

  • Depending on the service needed, repairs usually take between 2-3 days an d a week.

    Our general playing order service takes a couple of days, the clean, oil and adjust one between 3-4 days and a full re-pad up to a week.

  • We recommend having your flute checked out once every year.

  • Putting a flute incorrectly can lead to regulation issues which is something we seen on a weekly basis.

    When putting the head joint on, hold the flute as close to the top where there are no keys as possible with your left hand and insert the head joint with a twisting motion. Make sure the head joint goes in straight.

    For the foot joint, do the same but make sure to hold the keys cups where the pads are down.

  • Storing a flute in its case is the best way to prevent drops and falls. We recommend leaving it with the case open for a couple of hours after playing so that it can dry out.

    Flutes should be stored in a place with stable temperature and humidity. An easy rule is to store it where you live. Garages, attics, sheds and basements are not suitable for storing musical instruments.

  • We advise against greasing the joints as that attracts dirt and fibres which cling to the grease.

    If you find it difficult to assemble your flute and it doesn't feel smooth, you should bring it in for a cleaning or a re-fitting of the joints.

  • Most issues on a flute can be fixed: pads and springs can be changed, dents can be taken out and regulation can be adjusted. Broken keys can be soldered back together and straightened if bent. It is a question of whether the cost of the repair outweighs the value of the instrument.

  • With proper care and regular servicing, a flute can last almost indefinitely.