a simple flute question

[blueboy]

What is a "split-E mechanism", is it important? What are the pro's and cons, if any?

Thanks.

[DougR]

http://www.flute-net.com/flute-info/articles/split-e.htm

[Gordon (NZ)]

Simpler (?) version:

What is it?

The two keys ('keys' meaning key cups with pads) operated by the g finger (left hand ring finger) are normally an integral unit.

With split E, these keys are made independent, but mechanically linked in such a way that the G finger still closes both of them. What is different is that when the E key is pressed, it is mechanically linked to close the lower G key (leaving the upper G key still lifted)

The third octave notes on a flute are all harmonics or lower notes, and they require a single hole to be opened (like a sax octave key) to make the notes sound more easily and better. For third octave E, the upper G key should be lifted for a vent. On a standard flute this is impossible without also lifting the lower G key. The split E mechanism overcomes this situation, enabling a single vent hole.

Note that third octave F# and G# are also difficult notes to produce, relative to their neighbours. This is because they too have two vent holes. However the problems are not as severe as for E.

What does it achieve?

Third octave E becomes significantly easier to play (requiring less air speed). It does not so readily drop to A. It is a lot easier to slur to and from both the higher and lower A. E behaves like its neighbouring notes.

Down side:

1. Some more adjustment time for technicians. However it is not too bad, as the lower G key does not need to close FIRMLY when operated by the E key. For a flute with regulating screws, adjustment is actually simplified, because adjustment between the two G keys can be done with a screw.

2. Some people suggest greater unreliability because of the extra mechanism. I do not regard this as significant. However the combination of in-line G keys and split E can be mechanically disastrous, with the Bb key inclined to jam if the G key is firmly closed. Perhaps this is why in America, where there has been a mysterious and irrational love affair with in-line G keys, split E has been less common. If is pretty standard in many countries.

3. Extra weight. Barely significant.

4. One fingering for third octave G to A trill is lost. Others work OK for the experienced player with good breath support. (For a doubler, this is not a common trill)

5. One (2?) somewhat obscure tremolo fingerings are lost. (I've never encountered them)

"Split E" is regarded as a bit of a misnomer, because mechanically speaking, the G key (not E) has been split into two parts.

[blueboy]

Thanks very much Gordon.

I'm expecting to receive my flute within the next couple of days, and have been studying your famous cyber-flute-lessons file, which you sent me a while back, in preparation - it really makes excellent reading and I'm sure it will give me a headstart!

I'll give you further feedback when I've been playing it for a while.