Customer Reviews (3)

Indispensable
Whenever I see the word "complete" in book title, I tend to dismiss it.Upon reflection of this, this descriptor is probably implanted in the title by some editor, who's knowledge of the subject is less-than-complete, and to the untrained eye, it seems that everything is there.But this being said, this book is worthy of the descriptor "complete".

The authors are flute and piccolo makers in Massachutsas.So this slender volume is as complete as any flutist needs it to be barring those who wish to construct their own instrument from scratch.But if you are trying to service an existing flute or piccolo, this book does nicely.

It is a shame that it is out of print and so difficult to find.While I have picked up the last copy on Amazon for now, I have seen it available on some speciality websites that cater to musicians.Well worth the hunt.

book is still available
[...]

The only available detailed book on flute construction with useful descrption of maintenance too. Of note, James Phelan is an engineer, who applies the rigor of his discipline to what he writes about. No folklore here.

Not as technical as a woodwind repair manual, which seem near impossible to find anyway.

Highly recommended.

great guide
This is an excellent book on how the flute is made maintained, functions and repaired. It also includes how the sounds are produced. I bought this book used and my husband said it is such a great book he felt it must still be published so I decided to look it up. Too bad its out of print but if any one wants to know I thought I would put this review in for others to read. ... Read more