How much will it cost to fix my flute?

Question

My flute is long overdue for repairs at the shop. About two and a half years overdue.

Many of my keys have leaks, almost all of the pads need to be replaced, and the tuning cork on the head joint slides out without being turned.

Can anyone give me an estimate of how much it would be to get my flute fixed up into good shape again?

Answer 1

Hi Sara,

    I would say that it is time for maintance on your flute.  In the condition your flute is in now,   sounds like it is going to need a full recondition which means your flute will be completely disassembled, re-lubricated,  repadded, adjusted,  new headjoint cork.  Extras, which you will have to ask for...  are dings and dents removed,  little arm corks checked and replaced if they are loose,  dipped to remove all tarnish and machine polished,  case blown out and freshened.  In different parts of the country,  the repair techs charge various amounts for the service so I can only give you a round about figure of $175 - $300.    There maybe more than 1 music store and repair in your city,  so I would take it in and ask for an estimate of the service including the extras if you want them.  If it is more than $300.00 I would check with the next place.    In my city,  at the store I go to,  a complete recondition including the extras is $250.00...  but that might not be the same in your area.    I hear in the New York area,  the service is around $450.00.... so there is a wide gap.

In any case,  your instrument needs to get in to the shop for servicing and soon,  as it is summer and the repair techs have work piled way over their heads right now... and not just flutes....  besides that,  it is first come, first serve.   If you don't get it in... like pronto,  it will not be ready when school starts.

Hope I was able to help and thanks for reading.

RJS1121

Answer 2

Ouch! Price depends on a lot of things the area in which you live, the condition of your Flute etc! I agree with above take to to a repair shop NOW esp if you want it in time for school! They may be able to give you a quote before they start work on it! But the above estimates are about right