When i play the f- note on my flute its sounds deep and scratchy..What do i do to fix it?

Question

my f note sounds weird..any websites or advice you have on how to make it sound correctly

Answer 1

I agree with answer 2.  Assuming that you have gotten this note to sound fine previously, it is likely that your pad/ key has gotten out of alignment.  I'd show it to your band director or send it in to get fixed if they can't help.

If you've never gotten it to play well, then this is another matter and more along the lines of answer 1.  Getting lower notes to sound takes practice and learning how to use your air.  Think of blowing more downward than you are used to for lower notes.

Good luck!

Answer 2

Hi there,

Perhaps I should answer the second part of your flute question.   The pads on a flute are those soft white or yellow  circular  pieces that are placed inside of each of the keys which cover the holes of the flute.  They are made up of felt covered by a water proof bladder material.  The pad is recessed into the key and affixed with a tiny washer and s***w unless you have an Armstrong or Artley flute... which have a small plastic pop-in washer.

When a pad is in good adjustment & completely level, it fits over the metal hole of the flute and makes a nice tight seal...  no air can escape.   Pads do wear out over time and use.  If your pad has a tear or frey, or if it has shrunk or lifted, the seal will be broken and your pad will leak.  Also,  if the key has been bent ever so slightly...  which might be the problem with your flute... the key will leak and the note will not sound like it should.

In any case, there is nothing you can do about fixing the problem.  A woodwind repair technician can insert a leak light to determine if there is a leak and either adjust the pad in its key cup or replace it if it is damaged   .....  or correct the key if it is has been bent.   The repair cost would be minimal.  He can also determine if the problem is something altogether different...   but It sounds like something so minor that you could wait while he looks it over and gives you his evaluation.

Hope that was helpful.

And thanks for reading.

Answer 3

sounds like you need a pad adjustment

Answer 4

Does it always sound like this or is this recent? If it's recent it could be you have a leak or other issue with your instrument. If it's not then just practice playing the note with lots of stomach muscles, an open throat, and a dropped jaw. After a while it should sound fine. :)