From: upphetsade
I'm not sure in which forum to post this, but here goes: I have a Muramatsu ST, serial no. 19035, solid silver, open-hole, low B. I noticed a post by Zevang about he had one and found it hard to play, which is consistent with my experience. My teacher tried my flute and said she had to work hard just to get a sound out of it and I should get something different. In case I decide to sell it (rather than keep it as a second flute), does anyone have any idea what my asking price should be? I've seen prices on other ST's of similar vintage in the $2000-3000 range, with some over $3000.
Instrument Question <Moved>
Moderators: Classitar, pied_piper, Phineas
Re: Instrument Question <Moved>
I have a Muramatsu of the same vintage, and I found it rather hard work with the original headjoint, although a professional flutist friend who also plays an ST (with a Cooper head) was quite happy playing it. These flutes are beautifully made with a sturdy mechanism, so my solution was to change the headjoint (now I have a Michael Allen PB). Result: my old flute has been rejuvenated and I am really happy with it. Plus the shop has agreed to sell my old HJ for £595 (around $960) less 15% commission. Much easier than selling my old flute and searching for a new one.
BTW, a lot of players say that older flutes (pre 1980) are out of tune compared to newer 'Improved Cooper' scaled flutes. Well, all flutes can sound out of tune in the wrong hands. My solution is to use my ears and embouchure. Are we supposed to believe that all flutists prior to 1980 were out of tune?
Did you consider a new headjoint, or have you sold your ST? If so, what did you replace it with?
BTW, a lot of players say that older flutes (pre 1980) are out of tune compared to newer 'Improved Cooper' scaled flutes. Well, all flutes can sound out of tune in the wrong hands. My solution is to use my ears and embouchure. Are we supposed to believe that all flutists prior to 1980 were out of tune?
Did you consider a new headjoint, or have you sold your ST? If so, what did you replace it with?
Re: Instrument Question <Moved>
Indeed, I confirm that as being my case.
My old ST Muramatsu was a hard peace to make work!
But I completely agree that the mechanism is something! Very reliable and durable.
Sincerely, I would not give up on this flute. Unless you are really in need of money, I'd keep it and try as many new headjoints as you can to fit this flute.
I wouldn't sell mine for any money, also because it has a sentimental value to me.
It accompained me during over 16 years at my work as principal flutist in the orchestra.
Believe me, I bought it used with more than 10 years used.
My old ST Muramatsu was a hard peace to make work!
But I completely agree that the mechanism is something! Very reliable and durable.
Sincerely, I would not give up on this flute. Unless you are really in need of money, I'd keep it and try as many new headjoints as you can to fit this flute.
I wouldn't sell mine for any money, also because it has a sentimental value to me.
It accompained me during over 16 years at my work as principal flutist in the orchestra.
Believe me, I bought it used with more than 10 years used.
Re: Instrument Question <Moved>
Forgot to mention that my current backup flute is also a Muramatsu, an EX-III. Just the same wonderful mechanism, but what a difference the new Muramatsu headjoint make!
I chose the Tsubasa type and I do not regret!
I chose the Tsubasa type and I do not regret!