Ribas’s Improved Flute

Ribas’s Improved (Edinburgh University Collection)

Made by Pask at 8, Lowther Arcade, Strand, London 1842-47(?)

Ribas played an old fashioned 9 key flute made in wood with larger holes and a bigger bore than those in common use at that time. His modifications brought about an improved intonation and a more powerful tone.

From the photograph it will be seen that the D trill (RH1) appears to open the C hole for extra venting and the B flat is not the usual down the side key but has brought more in line with the thumb. The G sharp key is missing from this example but the hole is right of the third finger hole.

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