One of the sweetest, most basic, and most organic instruments is the flute, or bansuri. Yet, because it is built of bamboo, it is vulnerable to pest infestation, climate change, cracks, and other issues, making it highly sensitive and fragile. As a result, it needs to be handled carefully, and a flute or bansuri player needs to be knowledgeable on how to care for their instrument. We will talk about some maintenance advice for your flute or bansuri in this online flute lesson.

Choosing the correct flute or bansuri

We need to make sure we purchase our flute or bansuri from a seasoned flute or bansuri maker. Also, we must make sure the flute or bansuri we purchase is made of superior, well-seasoned bamboo. The flute, or bansuri, is easier to maintain and lasts longer when the bamboo is of higher quality.

Getting a Flute Cover

To keep your flute free of dust when storing it, always use a flute cover. Currently, practically all flute manufacturers include flute covers with the instrument.

If your flute maker did not provide a cover, you can create one out of PVC pipe from any nearby bag manufacturer that is a little bit longer and wider than your flute. The PVC pipe protects the flute from breakage or damage while it is being transported.

Threading the Flute/Bansuri

Cracks in flutes and bansuri may appear even after proper threading.This could be due to a number of circumstances, such as the flute’s or bansuri’s exposure to high temperatures or the bamboo’s potential weakness in particular areas. It looks more

attractive when threads are tied around the flute or bansuri. Moreover, it keeps the flute or bansuri taut and guards against cracking. Almost all flute makers use thread to wrap their instruments.

Storing and Carrying the Flute/Bansuri

The tuning of the bansuri is greatly influenced by the local temperature. It is sensitive to abrupt temperature changes. It is best to play the flute or bansuri at room temperature to avoid this. The flute or bansuri can also be lightly warmed by rubbing it with the palm of our hands.

The flute or bansuri shouldn’t be kept in a moist or humid environment. When kept in a covered area for a prolonged period of time at these locations, fungus is very likely to form.

Carry the flute with you at all times when flying. If you are checking a flute or bansuri case or cover in the aircraft’s luggage area, don’t forget to label it as fragile.

Oiling the Bansuri

Moreover, periodically oiling the flute or bansuri is advised since it keeps the bamboo strong and prevents the growth of fungus.

Put 4-5 drops of sesame, mustard, or almond oil on a little cotton cloth, then wrap the stick in the towel. Try rotating the stick gently and lightly so that the cloth touches the inner surface of the flute or bansuri after inserting it into the hole directly opposite the cork hole.

Handling Tips

• Pay close attention to avoid bending, denting, or scratching your flute, especially the embouchure (the headpiece where you put your mouth).
• Don’t leave your flute in a very hot or very cold automobile (extreme temps).
• In public, never leave your flute unattended (too tempting).

Conclusion

Regular use is the best method to keep a flute or bansuri in good condition. The actions listed above all prolong the life of our musical friend. The instrument should always be handled with the utmost respect and care.

I hope you find the online bansuri lesson useful. Last but not least, respect your bansuri as a living being.It is your constant companion. Visit Krishnaflute.com for more details.