- Made in France circa 1882
- Silver-plated maillechort
- Seamed tubing, 0.019″
- Open hole
- Pointed keys
- Inline G
- C-foot
- Embouchure: 9.94 mm x 11.77 mm
- Weight: 425 g
- Head sounding length: 144 mm
- Sounding length: 590 mm
- Traditional scale
- A=440-444 Hz
Claude Rive 1833-1895) made some of the finest flutes in France during the late 1800s, and this flute is a fine example of his exquisite craftsmanship. Even though it is silver-plated, the sound has the depth, taper, and creaminess of a silver flute. The flute sings beautifully with a clear, glowing voice, and its tonal colors are consistent in all registers. Large interval jumps are fluid and graceful. Its bright tonal qualities in the upper register are well-integrated to provide a rounder and smoother sound. The low register is responsive and flexible. Overall, this flute is a joy to play!
The scale of this flute is interesting but in a good way. The tone holes are spaced for a typical high-pitched French scale of 446-448 Hz, but the unusually deep toneholes lower the effective scale to A=444 Hz. With the headjoint pulled out about 1/8″, the flute plays like a typical traditional scale at A=444 Hz. However, the flute can also be played easily at any pitch from 440 to 444 Hz.
The headjoint appears unmodified. There is no indication that the tenon was shortened; it is the same length as the barrel. The ferrule is also in its original position, and the headjoint fits into the case with only a minimal gap. Therefore, this flute was likely constructed to play at 444 Hz, though it plays remarkedly well at 442 Hz and 440 Hz. Interestingly, when playing at 440 Hz, with the headjoint at 3/8″, the scale is most consistent and reliable, with the fewest intonation adjustments needed.
Some peeling of the silver plating had occurred between the D and E toneholes, and there is significant wear on the headjoint and foot tenons. But, overall, the silver plating on the rest of the flute is in exceptional condition.
The case is original and in exemplary condition, given its age. The locking mechanism is also functional.
This flute was one of nine Rive flutes featured in an article by David Chu, “Rive Reunion – Hearing Nine Claude Rive Flutes.” It is an outstanding example of Rive’s craftsmanship.
Price: $4,500
Sold as is. Sales tax applies to purchases within California. For inquiries on purchasing, please contact Gary Lewis.
