Sam Murray Blackwood & Silver, Eb

A bright, spirited flute with real punch and swagger in the tone. There's a Harry Bradley kind of quality to it; lively, forward, and full of character. Once you settle into it, it's a genuinely fun instrument to play. The note equivalent to A on a D flute (concert Bb) can tend to climb a little sharp if you're not mindful, but with some lipping down it falls into place, and it becomes second nature quickly.

The head joint has a crack that does not pass through the embouchure; it has been sealed and the head joint plays fine. The flute features a Db thumb hole (the Eb equivalent of a C natural thumb hole on a D flute). The left hand third finger hole is very slightly offset.

Sam Murray was a flute maker based in Northern Ireland whose instruments are rooted firmly in the sound and feel of the Irish tradition. His flutes earned a strong reputation among session players and performers for their responsive, characterful tone. Murray's instruments are well regarded for balancing traditional tonal qualities with solid craftsmanship.