Does anyone have an opinion about E L Deford Flutes?

Answer 1

I think they are one of the finest student flutes you could have at any price. Durable, good looking, nicely made with many features on top end flutes and incredible sound (high silver content). E.L. DeFord put much effort into his passion. The older ones from the 1970's are getting harder to come by. I still have the one I made first chair in junior high from 1975. It took me through concert and marching band (even sub zero temps). My daughter plays it now (it's had new pads) and she has first chair. Not bad for an investment of $150 bucks back then (amoritize the cost, if you like)! If you can find one, even in need of repair, get it ( fix it, if necessary)

What grabbed my interest even more was the fact that Emerson Deford himself, last year personally donated a handmade Flute to a young high school fellow who waa going into serious competition in Illinois somewhere and was too poor to possess an instrument tht corresponded with his amazing talent. What a

moving bit of heartfelt devotion to music on the part of Mr. Deford.

It needs an overhaul but still plays capably well with the foot joint from my other flute for now(serious spring pproblem tto--but all fixable). Once I cleaned it up and gradually remoistened and played up the pads it has a great sound particular to Defords I believe, good smooth action with no clicks or clunks after all these years too.

Thanks for your input. I love my 10B thinwall Deford. It's from around 1975 and still plays beautifully. All silver too, keys and all. Projects great volume and looks great too.