Hole Flutes
What does it mean when a open hole flute model says that the holes are offset?
I was looking at a Gemeinhardt model at Samash and it said that the holes were offset, I was wondering what that meant and if there is a difference from the regular open-hole models
Cubcur is on the right track. If you read the description carefully it should say “Offset G” or something like that.
What it means is that the key you close with your left-hand ring finger, to play G, is out of alignment with the other keys, to make it easier to reach if you have a short ring finger.
Personally, I never liked them, because your left hand fingers will settle nicely in a “straight” line when you turn your left hand the way you need to to hold the flute properly. Pulling the ring finger back for the offset key just creates more tension in the hand, I think. But you would have to try both kinds and see which is more comfortable for you.
I have personally never seen an open-hole flute with offset G, and I would stay away from them if they exist. You will see that the pad of the finger doesn’t fall flat on the offset key, so you will have the most awful time trying to get a proper seal.
But again, that’s my opinion. Try it & decide for yourself.
