Should Flutes Get Wet?

[Konstantin]

I would think that common sense dictates that quality flutes should not get wet. However, when I play for a long period of time, a lot of water comes out of my flute.

How important is it to keep flutes from getting wet, or even completely soaked? If I were to march in a parade, in the pouring rain, is that bad for my flute?

I would never purposefully soak my flute, but how careful should I be to keep it from getting wet?

Thank you for your help.

[pied_piper]

Condensation while playing is perfectly normal. When playing, most of the water collects in the headjoint and then simply runs out the flute. To help keep the water off of the pads, keep the flute resting with the keys up as when playing. If you let it rest on your lap with the keys facing down, the water will run into the tone holes and onto the pads. Also, if you are playing when the humidity is very high, the amount of water will be greater. In such a situation, it's beneficial to keep your swab handy and swab out the excess during breaks in playing. When you finish playing, be sure to swab it out well before putting it back in the case. If possible, it's a good idea to let it completely dry before closing the case.

Marching in the rain is another story. Good quality flutes should definitely NOT be played in the rain. Keep an old student model flute for that job. Too much water (i.e. RAIN) can permeate the pads and cause them to swell and lose their proper seating. It can also wick into the key shafts and cause the steel rods to rust.

[etgohomeok]

Don't get it wet.