Vertical flute

According to Wikipedia, the vertical flute is rim-blown or tubular duct flute. This is contrasted with the transverse flute, the flute we commonly play in Western classical music.

Commonly-known vertical flutes include the recorder, tin whistle, and tabor pipe, as well as Native American flute and Asian flutes.

Yet, now these two distinct styles of flute-playing are converging to make one instrument that produces the powerful sound of the silver and gold transverse concert flutes with the ergonomic considerations of the flute fitted with a vertical head joint.

Driving this convergence is the troubling increase in medical problems associated with transverse flute playing. Although the smallest instrument in the band, the flute is the most difficult to play from an ergonomic standpoint, with the player constantly working against gravity to simply hold the flute. The fingers are wrenched in an awkward position for long periods of time as well.

The most widely known maker of vertical head joints, and head joints in general, is Sandy Drelinger.

Sandy retrofits vertical head joints to transverse flute.

Here are a couple of performances on a transverse flute outfitted with a Drelinger UpRite head joint, making the transverse flute vertical.

Transverse flute fitted with a Drelinger UpRite head joint

Another performance with the UpRite vertical head joint for the flute.

The benefits of the vertical head joint include...

1) ergonomics combined with optimum acoustical design
2) Ability to support flute without tension from the hands
3) Overall relaxation while playing
4) Playing without pain
5) The flute sound is heard equally in both ears

Another flute maker produces vertical head joints for the transverse flute, but also an "in between" or modified flute head joint that he calls a "Swan" neck.

These vertical additions are not widely mass produced, so expect to pay anywhere from $2,000 and upwards for a vertical headjoint.

Is the vertical flute accepted in professional settings?

As more and more of the flute community recognize the dangers of carpal tunnel syndrome, focal dystonia, and other career-ending physical conditions, I believe that flutists will not only accept it, but enthusiastically embrace it. The key is making beautiful music and making it without pain or discomfort.

The addition of a vertical head joint to a standard transverse flute benefits not only the professional, but it enables children and small-statured people to play the instrument. Amateurs who have wanted to take up the flute now find themselves with a much more comfortable alternative.

Top of Vertical flute

Cyberflute home page

New! Comments