Description

Conical ring-key flute – MARGUERITAT

Margueritat was a major Parisian music publisher. René Margueritat (1816-1868), born in Bourges, moved to Paris where he founded his company in 1843 specialising as a music publisher and instrument dealer. The business would go from generation to generation, with changes to its structure until it finally ceased business in 2009… after 165 years.  

The wind instruments sold by Margueritat, including clarinets and flutes, were likely sourced from La Couture-Boussey. This particular model of ring-key flute still featured in the 1911 company catalogue.

We can estimate that this flute was made before the turn of the century, around 1890.  It is elaborated in nicely selected (cigar?) brown cocuswood. Its keywork is made of lovely shiny maillechort, which was polished to perfection and simply gleams. The oval embouchure is masterfully cut. The Margueritat stamp is present on both parts.

This conical ring-key flute was fully restored and is now in perfect playing condition. Hairline cracks on the reverse side of the head joint were repaired. It is supplied in its original case… with a key that fits! This flute plays at a=440 Hz or slightly lower. It is very comfortable to play – the finger holes are nicely sized. It has warm and very colourful lower notes. It would be ideal for someone who wants to play a wooden conical flute with the same fingering as a modern Boehm flute. Nothing has to be changed… it’s time to simply pick it up and play!