Gizmo key
Encyclopedia
The gizmo key is a key commonly found on the B foot joint of certain models of flute
that closes the low B tone hole without closing the low C or C# hole. This facilitates the performance of a fourth octave C and makes convenient fingering for high C.
The gizmo key was introduced by Verne Q. Powell (Powell Flutes
), in response to criticisms of the B foot joint by performers such as Jean-Pierre Rampal
, who believed that the lengthened tube made it harder for them to produce the highest notes. It is now common on the instrument.
Flute
The flute is a musical instrument of the woodwind family. Unlike woodwind instruments with reeds, a flute is an aerophone or reedless wind instrument that produces its sound from the flow of air across an opening...
that closes the low B tone hole without closing the low C or C# hole. This facilitates the performance of a fourth octave C and makes convenient fingering for high C.
The gizmo key was introduced by Verne Q. Powell (Powell Flutes
Powell Flutes
Verne Q. Powell Flutes Inc. has been a leading producer of professional flutes and piccolos since 1927. The company produces handmade musical instruments in wood, silver, platinum, and gold.-Verne Q. Powell:...
), in response to criticisms of the B foot joint by performers such as Jean-Pierre Rampal
Jean-Pierre Rampal
Jean-Pierre Louis Rampal was a French flautist. He has been personally "credited with returning to the flute the popularity as a solo classical instrument it had not held since the 18th century."-Early years:...
, who believed that the lengthened tube made it harder for them to produce the highest notes. It is now common on the instrument.