How did you find out about the Murray flute?
After learning the open G# system, I wondered if there were also an open d# system as well. Found some articles and some documents about the Murray system, and pictures via the Library of Congress.
Please tell us about your flute(s) – when it was made and by whom (or if unknown, where you found it)
1) Silver-plated body and keys, silver headjoint – via facebook, made by Jack Moore in collaboration with Robert Dick. Features include:
Left hand: Pinless mechanism, Open G#, Reversed thumbs on horizontal rod, Open B thumb, Bb thumb rod with roller, Coltman C#, Vented/split A; Right hand: Pinned mechanism, Open D#, F# lever, Moore/Brossa F#, C# trill, Coltman D trill (normal sized hole), and D# (larger than normal hole) trill keys, RH4 rest (for balance, as one doesn’t need the RH4 down except for the Ds and high B. Coltman scale. Date made – unsure.
2) All silver, 24k gold plated body and keys, ‘unibody’ made by Jack Moore. Date made – unsure
When did you switch to Murray flute and why?
I switched to the Murray in February of 2024, due to a hand injury, my LH4 was too tense, I thought the Murray system would help with that – it eventually did.
How long did it take you to switch?
About 1.5 months – I had to make a fingering chart as there were none, then had to ‘reprogram’ my brain to get familiar with it (first 3 weeks). The second three weeks I spent becoming comfortable with it.
Do you play other fingering systems or other instruments in addition to your Murray instruments?
Only if I haven’t practiced in a while and/or am playing in a flute choir, utilizing lower flutes that have neither the open G# or Murray system.
Did you ever study with Alex Murray, and if so, how would you describe your experience?
Unfortunately, no.
Did the murray flute change the way you play in any way?
TBD
What is your profession?
I work for the USPS.
