My flute had the unfortunate experience of being in the path of a fellow band member who fell at rehearsal. Whlie it was not damaged severely, there is a small (very small) nick in the embouchure hole on my headjoint (It is a Goosman butterfly style headjoint). The nick rests on my lip, slightly off-center. I cannot feel the spot on my lip when I am playing - it is that small.

I don't think this is affecting my playing but every time something doesn't respond correctly, I wonder.

Do you think such a small nick could affect the functionality of a headjoint?

Damage to or movement of the lip plate etc is likely to make a difference. If a flute is dropped it is more common that keys are slightly bent stopping them close properly. Your best bets are to try a different (identical) head joint and get the flute checked out by a technician.

If it's on the lip side, I wouldn't worry about it, It can be "cleaned up" to a degree, but that shouldn't cause a problem. I would also be more concerned that there are some effects elsewhere on the flute if it is not playing correctly.

Joe B

The gentleman who fell knocked over a stand that just grazed my lip plate - my flute was on it's stand. The rest of the flute was untouched (thankfully). I think the issues I am having are lack of practice issues and can't be blamed on the damage. I am going to get it adjusted (it is due anyway) after my concert next week so we will see what my tech says about it.

Thanks for your input!