Hi,

I have a 5-hole Aminor flute, and I'd like to turn it into a 6-hole flute. I know roughly where the 6th hole should be, of course, but how do I determine exactly where to place it? Are there guidelines for this, or does anyone have a suggestion?


Thanks,

Michael

It depends of the maker way.

If the five holes look equally spaced (except for the gap before the two top holes),
juts put the "sixth" in the middle of the third and fourth.
Before doing this verify you final six holes will be spaced equally,
and the space between third and fourth is not too small.
Start the hole small, and enlarge until you get it in tune.
After that, the two top holes will end slightly sharp, maybe.
In this case, just use nail polish or epoxy to reduce their diameter, little by little.

If the holes don't look equally spaced,
cause the maker have choosen to get the holes the same size, hmmm, it's not the same.
You can probably put the hole in the middle between the third and fourth, like previously,
but you may end with a different diameter one.
try to understand the finger holes pattern used,
by looking at the six holes flutes by the maker,
and put the hole where it should be,
you won't be so far... If, checking the hole, you see it will be different in diameter than the others,
and you don't want that, undercut it (if it wants to be bigger),
or go a little too big, then cheat with transparent epoxy to reduce it, (if it wants to be smaller).

Hi Michael,

Welcome to the forum!

Thanks Dale!

I think it is very, very wrong to attempt something like this. As I have posted elsewhere, the flute, as it is, is a whole system. That is, the intention of the flute-maker was to make a 5 hole, or a 6 hole flute. And there would be a logic, and a "scientific" basis to the way that flute was made. There is also a different charm to a 5 hole than there is to a 6 hole, to the nature of the fingering. And as I also stated elsewhere, if you want a six-hole, buy a six-hole.

Psst!! Wanna trade your five-hole for my six-hole flute?
I really, really, really like the five hole flute, and always bind up the sixth hole if I happen to get one on a flute. Guess I'm going for that traditional sound.
Pat

Hmmmm...
For me, there is nothing difficult in turning a five hole into a six hole.
I've done this many times.
These flutes are basically the same.
If the maker have done the layout on a classic six holes one,
but omitting the 4th, like most makers do,
it's very easy to add the extra hole.
A bit of tuning on the two top holes after that, and it's OK.
Sure, I would not recommend this to every flute owner,
but as soon as someone ask, I assume he knows what he wants.

Some makers provide a piece of leather to bind the fourth hole and turn a six into a five...
I'm still searching a way to provide an extra hole for the ones who want to turn a five into a six.

That "extra" hole that often times gets little or no use adds so much in terms of musical potential.
In terms of that "traditional sound" which one are you looking for? Historically (traditionally) eastern woodlands flutes were (are) 6 hole flutes.
That extra hole allows a really great version of that old traditional Native tune.......Greensleeves

i always keep an extra one in my pocket for times like those....

Jim do you keep an extra piece of leather or an extra hole in your pocket

I usually keep extra holes with the board stretchers and cans of steam....

hey dale just woodburn ia little sun symbol about the size the added hole should be on there where it should go and if they want to drill or burn it in later so be it if not they have an added cool decoration made by you there brother! many blessings...robert

extra holes now why didn't i think of that. all this time i've been doing it the hard way with a wood punch many blessings...robert

I think the 5 hole is easier for people to start with ,, and some stick with , if they like it .
That 4th , can give you a whole new flute though. By playing w/ the 3rd down and playing the fourth. mode 4 I think? you guys probably already know that though

But I do have a lower flute 5 hole that is to me perfect for just losing yourself in. No extra thoughts .

both are perfect for the right time