Customer Reviews

Bo-Pep Flute Thumb Guide

5 star:		(2)
4 star:		(1)
3 star:		(1)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

I taught myself how to hold the flute incorrectly and it has been difficult from me to break out of the habit. This saddle comfortably helps me have a better and more ergonomic hold on the flute. I had used some sticky foot foam years back to do the same as this but it lost form and damaged the exterior of my flute. I was surprised how easy this is to pop on and it does not damage the flute. It is a hard plastic. The only drawback is that you have to be careful not to place it to close to the keys or the keys will not close. I highly recommend it.

This simple add on for your flute will make a world of difference. It's comfortable and at the same time protects your flute and your left thumb area. I keep my flute in a near NEW condition and this simple gizmo has helped me to keep the constant sweat from my thumbs from causing any acidity problem on my flute. I'm planning to get another one for my right thumb, since it will fit both with no problem. Be advised you may need a very small double sided tape to be able to keep the saddle from moving while playing (a strip about a 1/8 by 1/2" will do). The electrical double sided type tape, which is extra stretchable and with no glue is the best since it can be easily removed and will leave no markings.

5* for concept BUT minus 0.5* for scratching my flute! Not as bad as the saddle (too tight) as fit is much better for the thumb guide - use on student or already scratched up 2nd hand flutes where you don't mind another 1-2 scratches. As for functionality 5 stars.

a clever attractive and ergonomic little device, affordably priced that is immensely helpful for the beginner in improving their grip on the flute

first noticed on amazon.com, subsequently recommended by flute teacher who lent me one. A definite must buy for the new beginner or any flutist correcting his/ her grip. I am 5 weeks into my flute playing adventure (mainly self teaching). This gadget has helped me be consistent with my right thumb positioning and improve my grip on the flute, stabilizing the flute for C2 which I had trouble holding up sans the little Bo-pep. A much more ergonomic solution than the thumb port which has been touted by some as the non slip clip-on solution - but I have personally found the thumb port to be a little too clunky and (the wings) uncomfortable for my thumb.

I have not encountered any slip issue (this gadget is used). I position and click my Bo-pep thumb rest into place just below my right index finger and wedge the curved upper edge (pinnacle of inverted triangle) of the bo-pep turning it up toward me to rest snugly against the raised edge of the rib construction - point of contact is just ever so slightly off-centre below the right index finger agst the raised rib. Sits securely on my Yamaha step-up. Ditto the Miyazawa entry level flute without obstruction of keys. And my right thumb sits ergonomically against it at the precise angle it is meant to - comfortably so. (noted earlier handy comments on anti slip solution but do not expect that to arise)

Attractively packaged. Highly Recommended.

[UPDATED: In hindsight, once installed I would be inclined to leave the Bo-pep on without taking it on and off between practice sessions. I have just discovered some superficial scratch marks on the body of the flute as I was cleaning it just now. Just take care. Might be an idea to place a felt adhesive on for traction as well as protection.]

Its very cool and confortable but slides under keys and flute wont play, you slide it back in place and it slides back. Good for confort bad for playing.