I’ve been discussing with friends the interaction between an artist and his/her flute. My friend said, “An accomplished artist can take an inexpensive flute and bring out the best from a low quality instrument”. But, I said, “A finely crafted flute, with quality metal will determine and make a difference in the tone quality, brightness and warmth of the sound produced.

The video below, I believe proves my point. It is a video from 1958 of Rampal playing a gold flute crafted by Louis Lot which had been commissioned by the Philharmonic Society of Shanghai for Jean Remusat to thank him for accepting the job of being president.

The haunting melody is captivating and you can hear the quality of the metal and craftsmanship in the sound which amplifies the masterful skill of Rampal.

Louis Lot No 1375 18K gold flute made in 1869 and played by Rampal in Paris, France, March 17, 1958.