Kohlert Flute

1 ANSWERS

1. amomipais82
   

   Hi There,
   Unfortunately, you have on your hands one of the makes of flute for which there is extraordinarily little information.  The first Kohlerts were made in the region of Czech Republic in the late 1800's (starting around 1880), and some of them were nice instruments.  They've been made more or less continuously since then.  However, there are modern Kohlerts out there that are pretty much junkers.  That number you found (06834), is the serial number, which would usually help to date an instrument, but unfortunately there are no records of Kohlert serial numbers, so unfortunately it is essentially impossible to date your flute. It's possible that it is something your father inherited before passing it down to you, but also quite possible that he bought it new sometime during his life.  I'm sorry I can't help you much with that part.
   
   As for how to care for it, this really depends on whether you want it to be in playing condition or not.  Regardless, keep it in its case when not in use, and store it in a dry place where humidity and temperature are relatively stable.  As long as it's not getting played, it should be fine like this for many years.  Don't attempt to polish it, as over polishing in the wrong places can do some pretty serious damage.
   
   However, if you decide you want it playable (either now, or in the future), it will likely need some pretty significant work.  If it's been in storage for several years, it will probably need a repad, which should incorporate an overhaul.  This will put it in as-new (or perhaps better than new) condition, and make it completely playable.  Ask flute players in your area for recommendations of repair techs who they would trust to carry out the work.  Once you've found one, just let them know you want it fully restored/put back in playing condition, and they should take care of the necessary work.  Once it's in playing condition, it will need to visit a tech at least annually for a COA (Clean, Oil, and Adjust) to stay that way.  
   
   Now, if it actually gets played, be sure the player swabs it out after each practice session or performance, and wipes it down to remove skin residues and oils that can cause tarnish.  I like microfiber cloths best, as they'll remove the residues without stripping any metal or getting chemicals into the mechanism (as treated polishing cloths can).  If this isn't possible, a soft, lint-free cloth separate from the one you use to swab it out should be used.  Pieces of old t-shirts can be used for this.  
   
   Preventative maintenance which can be used (and helps a lot if done regularly), but is not absolutely necessary would be to wash your hands before handling it, and brush your teeth before playing.

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