Antique Vintage Old Wooden 8 Key Irish Flute By Alexander Liddle.

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$1705.48
Brand
Liddle
Instrument
Flute
condition
Used
If you are thinking that this flute looks rather like a Metzler, then it's no coincidence, because it was manufactured by the man who supplied that particular company, along with many other major London based woodwind instrument companies like;  D'Almaine, Wallis, Butler, and Keith, Prowse & Co etc.... So it would appear that he was a prolific, and well regarded flute manufacturer of his day (active from 1847 - 1879). Over many years I have had the pleasure of collecting, restoring and playing a considerable number of flutes made by Alexander Liddle. This is the first one I have seen that actually bears his own name and address, making this example quite uncommon, and highly desirable to collectors and players alike. It is stamped "Liddle LONDON" on all sections bar the head, with the address " 35 DEVONSHIRE ST., QUEEN'S SQ. " on the left hand section (see photos 13-14). Liddle was active at these premises from 1855-1873. As is the case with these flutes, the undersides of the keys bear the manufacturer's initials  A .L. (see photo 12).

This particular flute is a fine example of his craftsmanship, made from nicely grained and hued Cocus, and is fitted with Nickel Silver; keys, wide banded ferrules, tone hole bushings, and full lip plate. This flute is both robustly made, and strikingly attractive at the same time. There is one partial crack repair to the lower section of the head, and one to the barrel (see photo 5). There are also two small ones to the right hand socket and one to the foot socket (see photos 3-4). All repairs are neat, discrete and sound. The flute is in entirely original condition/full playing order, and benefits from a recent overhaul, with new pads, head cork, and cotton lapping being fitted. The Low C. keys function easily and effectively, and the pewter plugs benefit from the occasional light oiling. It plays at  A = 440Hz., with a 15mm. slide extension as shown in the photos, and intonation is quite good, with just the A's & B's requiring slight lipping down to pitch. This large holed flute speaks with a powerful voice that projects well, delivering a reedy tone. 

Highly recommended for Traditional Irish Music.