Intermediate or Re-entry Flute
As an older, re-entry, intermediate flutist, I needed an offset G and split E. they are a game changer for someone whose fingers are aging. That was the main reason for getting a new flute. I found this model to be very forgiving as far as when you have one of those "I-just-can't-get-my-embouchure-right-today" days. I'm not an expert by any means, but I think the hole in the head joint is larger than usual. Perhaps that's the reason it feels easier to produce a clear, strong sound, with a great harmonic range. I also find it easier to support softer playing without going flat the longer you hold a note. All that being said, for me, it's a little easier to overblow some middle octave notes, but that could be my re-entry into the practice world. The 3rd octave is easy to voice, not taking a lot of work figuring out a clear sound. Mind you, not a GREAT sound, but a CLEAR sound. At least it's not 'screamy' like my old flute. The mechanism is smooth, with nice rebound. Not too mushy and not too springy. On the B foot, I really like the roller keys - I can actually feel them individually, and not both of them as one, if that makes sense. Some of the other flutes I tried had a problem with condensation dribbling onto the pads and causing Low C, B not to voice. This would happen after about 45 mins of practice if I didn't swab. So far, I haven't had this issue with the Chanson. Maybe it's me, but I've never experienced that before. It was really weird.
Overall, I love this flute. I think it makes an affordable and worthy instrument for any intermediate flutist. Oh, BONUS - the case is in itself a work of art.
