Pre-Loved Powells

We recently stopped by the repair shop to check in with Rachel, our Repair Tech, who was busy working on a few overhauls.  It was interesting to see some examples of the "before and after" of overhauling "pre-owned" Powell flutes -- or what she fondly refers to as "pre-loved Powells."  Rachel holds the pre-loved Powells in the highest regard.  She has seen so many come through the shop, and even in the most trying states of condition, she is able not only to restore them but also to appreciate that there is much more to the overhaul than just mechanics...

2100 awaiting an overhaul

After Rachel notified one of the customers that his flute had arrived safely, she received the following e-mail:

Hello Rachel,

Thank you for the update. I'm looking forward to having the Powell fully restored. Take good care of it. Life has asked little from it, but given it lots of abuse.

Rachel receives many communications from people looking to buy and sell older flutes.  Of course, we are always very happy to help our customers pinpoint the exact new Powell of their choice, build it, and then ship it to them -- completely untouched.  So, why would one consider a pre-loved Powell? There could be a couple of reasons. Rachel mentioned that a pre-loved instrument could make a good, quality back-up flute. She says, "People may be hesitant to look at an older instrument because they think it may have problems.  Plus, everyone likes new, shiny things...  But, everything can be fixed and repaired on a flute -- and made shiny again!" She added that you can also try these pre-loved Powells to see if you like them.

Looking beyond the outside of an older Powell, Rachel shared with us a few more reasons that you might consider these pre-loved flutes. Recalling the exact words of the e-mail above, she expanded on the sentiment: "They each have a different character about them.  Plus, if you think about it, you realize that you are giving them a chance to have a new life, and that's what they were meant to do.  They were meant to be played, not left in a closet all alone.  If you choose one, you can help it fulfill its purpose in life."

So, if you discover an older instrument that looks a bit faded and worn, rest assured that it can begin a new life with a little help from your repair technician...

Might not look very shiny -- yet.

Certainly different looking than something brand new.

Has seen some wear, but...

It can begin a new life after an overhaul!

The overhauled 2100 on the left, a Conservatory in for a COA on the right.

Looks pretty shiny now!

Very shiny!