How does one piece construction compare to the traditional method?
Traditionally Native American style flutes are made from 2 pieces of wood where the two chambers are routed out and glued together. One piece construction on the other hand uses a solid one piece of end-bored wood to create the chambers. Each has its advantages and disadvantages. The one piece method does not have glue joints that might separate. It tends to have thicker walls making it heaver and better able to take a fall down the stairs or being sat upon. The thicker walls makes for a “darker” sound than the 2 piece construction that tends to have thinner walls giving it a “brighter” sound. A two piece construction method also allows for finer shaping of the air ways inside. Which is better? I have many of each and I like the different tone and feel ach type brings. It is like trying to answer which wood or key is “better” – it is just a personal preference.
