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...in every flutist's voice. Nagahara Flutes
Embochure Cuts
Exclusively made and designed by Kanichi Nagahara, every Nagahara headjoint possess a different charm and characteristics to fit the very many styles of playing. Whether you are an orchestral flutist, a student or a recreational flutist, Nagahara has a headjoint for you offering the largest selection of headjoint cuts and materials in the industry to choose from. A different selection of Embouchure cuts are available for Metal and Wood headjoints specially designed to highlights the best attributes of each material.
Metal Headjoint Cuts
Three original embouchure cuts were first created (D, A, and S) which later led to the making of two very popular combination cuts (DA & DS).
There are three different lipplate style as well which contribute a whole lot to that special Nagahara sound that is known and praised by players around the world: the Original Nagahara lipplate (for Standard and Full Concert Models only), the Galway lipplate (for Galway model only), and the Konami lipplate (for Standard and Full Concert Models only).
Available in Silver, Gold, and Platinum, the combinations are endless allowing us to make the perfect headjoint just for you!
Descriptions of each distinct cut and their general tonal characteristics are found below:
Diligente (D) - Most resistant cut with tallest riser wall height; produces a dark and centered core tone. Great response in lower register notes; requires more air support for long or pianissimo phrases.
Ardore (A) - Bright, open sound & free-blowing feel. Embodies the American Flute sound with much vibrancy and strength in the sound; widest cut we offer with lowest riser wall height.
Spianato (S) - Traditional, more conservative cut for smaller ensemble playing. A bit more oval in shape; made to portray a soft and sweet sounding voice.
DA - A cross between the “D” and “A” cut. Even flexibility & resistance throughout all registers. The most popular cut selection among flutists of all levels offering a great mixture and balance of warmth, vibrancy, color change, and clear articulation.
DS - A cross between the “D” and “S” cut. Medium resistance with a more delicate and sweet sound. Great for chamber ensemble playing.
Galway (G) - Made with a unique lipplate design that enhances projection power and embodies the vibrant sound Sir James Galway is known & praised for. Provides flexibility & clean articulation with ease through all registers.
Konami Lipplate - A hand hammered wave on the lipplate lightly raising the sides of the riser enabling a more focused and direct sound. Great for those who seek a clear and focused tone instantly with little effort.
Wood Headjoint cuts
Our Wooden Headjoints also have exclusive cuts made to enhance the special sound qualities and resonance know to be true from wood. Three different cuts are available and described below:
Modern -Clear and bold with artistic resistance through all register; close to the feel of a metal headjoint but with more grain and texture in the sound. Offer edge in the sound and projects greatly with ease.
Classic - Of medium resistance, very responsive and elegant in tone. Very much preferred for classical era music, such as Mozart dazzling with a light and expressive tonal quality.
Baroque -Provides an easeful tone with more traditional characteristics; delicate and a tubular tone projection with a hollow aura in the sound perfect for the Baroque style of music.