Table of Contents
Introduction
Bansuri Maintenance is very important to keep this beautiful and delicate instrument in top condition. Proper maintenance is necessary for both beginners and experienced players to ensure the longevity and sound quality of their bansuri.
In this article, we will provide you with seven easy to follow tips on bansuri maintenance.
Reading this article in just 5-7 minutes, you will learn everything on how to take care your bamboo fltue.
1 : Avoid physical damage due to mishandling
One of the most common ways bansuris get damaged is through mishandling. Dropping, hitting, or knocking the bansuri against hard surfaces can cause cracks or breaks in the bamboo, affecting its sound quality.
To avoind bansuri from physical damage, it is crucial to handle the delicate instrument with utmost care and avoid any sudden impacts or movements that can cause physical damage.
2: Proper storage in carry cases and Ruby case provided by DPflutes
Proper storage is another essential aspect of bansuri maintenance. Storing the instrument in a hard carry case can protect it from physical damage and unfavorable environmental conditions. The carry case that comes with the bansuri is designed to provide optimal protection and is highly recommended for storage. By storing your bansuri properly, you can help to ensure its longevity and preserve its quality.
DPflutes provides an additional inner case made of velvet called Ruby Case, along with the hard carry case, which can help protect it from dust and moisture.
Additionally, to ensure proper bansuri maintenance, invest in a good-quality third party carrying case to provide additional protection when transporting the bansuri.
3: Avoid exposure/playing in extreme temperature or dry areas
Bamboo, the primary material used to make bansuris, is sensitive to extreme temperatures and dryness. Exposure to high temperatures or dry environments can cause the bamboo to crack or warp, which can affect the sound quality of the bansuri.
Avoiding playing or exposing your bansuri in unfavourable environmental conditions is one of the best ways to ensure bansuri maintenance.
4 : Clean after playing for a long time
Playing bansuri for extended periods can cause moisture to accumulate inside the bansuri, which can affect its sound quality and lead to fungal growth.
As a part of routine bansuri maintenance, it’s recommended to clean the instrument with a dry cloth after playing for an extended period. Gently wiping the inside and outside of the bansuri can remove any accumulated moisture or dust that can cause damage or affect the sound quality.
5 : Keep away from children
Children are naturally curious and may accidentally damage the bansuri while playing with it. Ensure proper bansuri maintenance by keeping them away from reach of children to avoid any accidents or mishandling.
6: Ensure threading is intact
Threading is an essential part of bansuri maintenance as it helps keep the bamboo flute sturdy and can prevent it from cracking. If the threads on your bansuri are loose, it is important to put them back in place to prevent further damage. Make sure to regularly check the threading on your bansuri and replace or repair it if necessary.
Please refer to the following video tutorial on how to properly thread your bansuri flute. This step-by-step guide will help you understand one basis step towards bansuri maintenance that is to put thread on a bamboo flute to ensure that it stays in place and does not become loose over time.
7 : Regular oil treatment for long life
Regularly oiling the bansuri is another important step in routine maintenance that can help preserve its life and sound quality. Oiling helps to maintain the moisture content of the bamboo, preventing it from drying out or cracking.
It is recommended to use sesame oil, olive oil, or mustard oil to oil your bansuri. Apply 3-4 drops of oil on a cotton cloth, wrap it around a stick, and gently rub it inside the bansuri. You can use ear buds to oil around the holes of a bansuri.
Make sure there is no dust inside the bansuri before oiling. It is recommended to thoroughly wipe the flute after oiling to prevent oil spilage.
Please refer to the tutorial video below on bansuri maintenance in which we have demonstrated how to properly oil your bamboo flute.
Conclusion
Proper bansuri maintenance is crucial to ensure its longevity and sound quality.
Avoid physical damage, store it in a proper case, avoid extreme temperatures and dryness, clean after playing, keep it away from children, ensure threading is intact, and regularly oil the bansuri.
By following these seven tips , you can keep your bansuri in top condition and enjoy its beautiful sound for years to come.
Please leave your comment in the box below.
FAQs
How should I take care of my bansuri?
Handle it with care to avoid physical damage, and store it in a protective case when not in use. Avoid exposure to extreme temperatures and dry areas, and clean the bansuri after playing to remove moisture that can accumulate inside. Keep the instrument away from children, and check the threading regularly to ensure it is intact. Finally, apply a small amount of oil to the bamboo on a regular basis to prevent it from drying out and cracking, which will help extend the life of the instrument.
Do you have to oil your flute?
Oiling a flute on a regular basis is highly recommended to ensure its longevity and optimal performance. Oiling the inside of the flute and the point around the holes helps to prevent cracks and warping in the bamboo, as well as keeping the instrument in good condition. Moreover, oiling of a bansuri ensures its logivity.
Which oil can be used in bansuri maintenance?
To maintain a bansuri flute, it’s recommended to regularly apply mustard oil to the inside of the instrument and around the holes using either a swabbing device or ear buds dipped in oil. This helps prevent drying out and cracking of the bamboo, which can adversely affect the sound quality. A homemade swabbing device can be used to reach the interior of the bansuri. It’s important to apply the oil in moderation to avoid excess buildup. By following these steps, bansuri players can keep their instrument in optimal condition for longer.
How often should you oil your flute?
To ensure the longevity and optimal performance of your flute, it is recommended to oil it regularly. The frequency of oiling will depend on several factors, such as how often the flute is played and the environmental conditions it is exposed to. As a general guideline, it is advisable to oil your flute at least once a month. However, if you play your flute more frequently or it is exposed to extreme temperatures or dry conditions, it may require more frequent oiling. Use a suitable oil, such as mustard oil, and apply it to the inside of the flute and the point just below the blow-hole.
How do you clean fungus from bansuri?
To effectively clean fungus that may accumulate inside a bansuri flute, a small piece of oil damp cotton cloth can be used to wipe the inside of the instrument. Earbuds dipped in oil can also be used to clean hard-to-reach areas around the holes.
Avoid using water for cleaning the bansuri as it can cause dampness and promote the growth of more fungus.
Hi sir,
My response to your recent YouTube video on Bansuri maintenance.
Possible reasons for Bansuri’s/flute’s change in pitch based on my observations, please correct if I’m wrong anyway:
1. Temperature:
Change in ambient temperature have impact in the speed of sound, consequently ambient medium average kinetic energy will vary, more the kinetic energy, more will be increase in temperature, and vice versa for lower temperature (less kinetic energy of air/medium).
If interested in Mathematics of this, read more on: http://www.sengpielaudio.com/calculator-pitchchange.htm#:~:text=The%20influence%20of%20temperature%20on,is%20minus%20273.15%C2%B0C.
2. Humidity:
Water content in surrounding also have impact to Bansuri’s pitch, Bansuri/any wooden instrument have tendency to swell, or shrink, consequently there will be change in nature/size, pitch will be impacted.
3. Crack in flute:
Obvious reason for change in pitch will be crack in flute.
How to avoid change in pitch:
0. Keep checking for insects, cockroaches if keeping Bansuri in box.
1. Adequate oiling.
2. Careful handling for not to damage the flute.
3. Don’t expose Bansuri to harsh environment.
4. Keep Bansuri clean after playing. (clean from outside Bansuri moisture).
5. Don’t do sanding/shining much on Bansuri.
6. Don’t let fungus grow inside the Bansuri.
Thank you,
Shrishail
Why Bansuri sounds sharper in summer?
To understand why the Bansuri sounds sharper in the summer, it’s essential to consider it as an open tube at both ends. The resonant frequency of the open-ended tube is determined by the formula f = nv/(2*(L + 0.6*d)), where L is the effective length of the Bansuri (measured between the mouthpiece and the first open hole), d is its diameter, n is the harmonic number, and v is the speed of sound in air.
Of these variables, only the speed of sound is a variable, which is determined by the equation v = sqrt(γRT/M). Here, γ is the adiabatic index (a constant), R is the gas constant (also constant), T is the temperature (in Kelvin), and M is the molecular mass.
Therefore, the resonant frequency of the Bansuri is directly proportional to the square root of the temperature. As the temperature rises in the summer, the frequency increases accordingly, causing the Bansuri to sound sharper.
One thing what i have observed is that. Our blow create heat inside the flutes. If weather condition outside is so hot like present condition in North India and heat generation due to our blow because of body temperature, the Sur always will get mess. Not only that there are high chance that flute get cracked.
Playing tips is quite simple
1. Avoid playing in extream heat.
2. Room should have proper ventilation. Mostly in closed room we get good eco will love playing but we should avoid it to safeguard damages.
3. While cleaning flute from inside don’t tauch the cork if it get mis placed Sur will get altered.
4 Avoid flutes without threading.
5 Avoid over oilying, your fingers become sticky while playing.
Good Morning,
I am Nirmal Sarang from Surat-Gujarat.
Topic is how to take care Flute? how to maintain flute?
1. Actually life of flute is depend on how it is maintain by flute player, regularly care should be taken or not? So taking
care is necessary.
2. First of all, always purchased seasoned bamboo flute, which is minimum 4-5 years old bamboo.
3. If flute was seasoned, it was dry from inside, its tuning will maintain for longer time.
4. After playing for a longer time, flute must be clean with a clean cotton cloth.
5. Don’t keep flute in back side of car trunk(dikki), because that place is hot and after that people immediately put their
flute under Air-condition (AC) in their home, if they do this, crack will definitely comes in a flute.
6. Don’t keep flute besides window, possibility of tone change or cracks will come.
7. After playing flute, always make a habit to clean flute, specially blowing area, chances of saliva be their in the flute,
which create fungus in it.
8. If there is a chance of fungus in a flute during winter / monsoon, regularly do “oil treatment” and clean your flute and
keep your flute at a safe place where temperature in normal.
9.. For oil treatment, use any organic oil. Do not use too much sticky oil.
10. Always put your flute in a cover (pvc pipe)
11. To avoid cracks, threading must be needed..
12. On behalf of purchasing normal bamboo flute, try once to purchase fry bamboo flute, in fry bamboo moisture almost
removed by flute maker…. and we knew that, if there is no moisture in a flute, its tone and quality will maintain for a
longer period.
13. Temperature effects on a flute, because it was made from bamboo. In winter/ monsoon flute tone gets low and in
summer tone raise little bit… It a natural bamboo, so taking care must be needed….
14. If any flute player follow these basic caring techniques, they can maintain their flute quality for a longer time… for
these they can take suggestions from experts, from their guruji..
That’s it from my side…. Dineshji I had very less knowledge about flute maintenance, whatever I knew, I had shared it… I had just completed only 16 months to learn flute.
Thank you ….
The above article is very informative regarding Flute maintenance. It is an ideal handbook one can refer for all the remedies a Flute may seek.
During SUMMER :
Outside air acts exaggerative to the natural air blowing.
The warm air from the surroundings while entering the flute from the available vents, tends to reside in the upper area of the flute and moves out from the playing holes.
Thus playing sounds a few semitone higher.
During WINTER :
Outside air acts resistive to the natural air blowing.
The cold air from the surroundings while entering the flute from the available vents, tends to reside in the lower area of the flute and moves inside the flute from the playing holes.
Thus the playing sounds a few semitone lower.
Regards
ARJUN OZHA
BANGALORE
Thanks Arjun. Very much true.
While I was discussing the same with a Mumbai based professional flautist, he mentioned that, while recording the solo instruments especially flute, in the live studio, the composer ensures the recording booth is not under extreme air conditioning to avoid such phenomenon. Every time conducts a warmup/trial session and mostly records flute part at room temperature.
Hi
There is many science which can illustrate why In summer or flute goes to sharper pitch. With little understanding , I justify these reason with may way.
According to temperature increase the air in-between the flute also warm which release the moisture from it , make bamboo dry than previous. As in winter the temperature is relatively low , which absorb moisture from air as in winter there is low content in moisture. For that reason in winter have to warm up flute to get proper pitch otherwise its go down. So if we select mature or seasoned or old bamboo it is regularize itself by several season change. So if u minimize the weather effect , should oiling the bamboo , which prevent these process.
Some time its good for your self to check the sound , pitch , scale. Afterall Flute is played not only flingers but our ear also. So take it easily , go through long note practice and hold the blowing..
Cheers..
Santosh Kumar Bera..
Hi
There is many science which can illustrate why In summer our flute goes to sharper pitch. With little understanding , I justify these reason with my way.
According to temperature increase the air in-between the flute also warm which release the moisture from it , make bamboo dry than previous. As in winter the temperature is relatively low , which absorb moisture from air as in winter there is low content in moisture. For that reason in winter have to warm up flute to get proper pitch otherwise its go down. So if we select mature or seasoned or old bamboo it is regularize itself by several season change. So if u minimize the weather effect , should oiling the bamboo , which prevent these process.
Some time its good for your self to check the sound , pitch , scale. Afterall Flute is played not only flingers but our ear also. So take it easily , go through long note practice and hold the blowing..
Cheers..
Santosh Kumar Bera
From the resources I followed, this is a summary content :
The sound produced by the bansuri is affected by several factors, including the temperature and humidity of the air.
In the summer months, the temperature and humidity levels are generally higher, which can cause the air inside the bansuri to expand. This expansion of air can result in a slightly higher pitch and a brighter tone in the sound produced by the bansuri.
Additionally, the moisture content of the bamboo used to make the bansuri can also affect the sound produced. In the summer months, the bamboo may have a higher moisture content due to increased humidity levels, which can also contribute to the brighter tone of the bansuri.
Overall, the combination of higher temperature, humidity, and moisture content can cause the bansuri’s sound to change and become more vibrant during the summer months.
It’s not necessary to prevent the change in the sound of the bansuri during the summer months as it is a natural phenomenon and is part of the unique character of the instrument. However, if the change in sound is causing any discomfort or inconvenience to the player, there are a few things that can be done to mitigate the effects of higher temperature and humidity levels:
Keep the bansuri in a cool and dry place: It’s important to store the bansuri in a place where the temperature and humidity levels are stable. Avoid keeping it in direct sunlight or in areas with high moisture content, such as near a window or in a bathroom.
Use a dehumidifier: If the humidity levels in your area are particularly high, consider using a dehumidifier to regulate the moisture content in the air. This can help prevent the bamboo of the bansuri from absorbing too much moisture.
Tune the bansuri regularly: Regular tuning of the bansuri can help keep it in good shape and prevent any unwanted changes in the sound. If you notice any significant changes in the sound of the bansuri, take it to a professional for tuning.
Practice good maintenance: Regularly clean and oil the bansuri to keep it in good condition and prevent any damage caused by high humidity levels.
By following these steps, you can help minimize the effects of high temperature and humidity on the sound of your bansuri and ensure that it remains in good condition.
Humidity Water content in surrounding also have impact to Bansuri’s pitch, Bansuri/any wooden instrument have tendency to swell, or shrink, consequently there will be change in nature/size, pitch will be impacted. Crack in .flute
Obvious reason for change in pitch will be crack in flute.
In very simple terms, the reason why bansuri’s pitch changes during transition in seasons or even when kept for long period of time unused and unmaintained.
We need to first of all understand fundamentally about bamboo’s response to temperature.
Bamboo is a plant and specifically a fast growing ( considered as fastest like around 2.5ft./day ) woody grass species which grows in wet and tropical conditions ( which is considered as ambient atmosphere ) So, mitigating to extreme and sudden change in humidity and temperature conditions is difficult for bamboo which distorts their shape like any other plant or organic material.
Hence, when the temperature increases, the bamboo expands, causing the length of the flute to increase slightly. This increase in length results in a slight decrease in pitch. Conversely, when the temperature decreases, the bamboo contracts, causing the length of the flute to decrease slightly. This decrease in length results in a slight increase in pitch.
This is the simple explanation which can be understood by anybody, a lay person and a science enthusiast alike.
Ofcourse we can go in aerodynamics and science of this as well. In very simple terms again, the reason behind this change is the fundamental physics of sound production in a flute. The pitch of a flute is determined by the effective length of the air column inside the flute. When the flute is longer, the pitch is lower, and when it is shorter, the pitch is higher. The expansion and contraction of the bamboo due to temperature changes affect the effective length of the air column, thus influencing the pitch of the flute.
I hope anybody reading this would have easily understood the flute’s response to temperature. And would take better care of bansuri as maintenance can play a significant role in minimizing the impact of temperature changes on a bamboo flute and helping to maintain its pitch stability and increases its sturdiness in long term.
As said by sir only, that flute is not just an instrument, its instrument of god. So keep playing and enjoying it.
Thank you
Ayushi
बांसुरी बांस की बनी होती है, जो गर्मियों में फैलती है और सर्दियों में सिकुड़ती है। इस प्रकार बांसुरी की ट्यूनिंग में बदलाव हो सकता है। बांसुरी को फैलने और सिकुड़ने से बचाने के लिए थ्रेडिंग की सहायता भी ली जाती है, नहीं तो बांसुरी में दरार आ सकती है। इसके अलावा थ्रेडिंग, बांसुरी को और खूबसूरत बनाती है।
ठंड के मौसम में हमारे शरीर और वातावरण का तापमान अलग अलग होता है जिससे बांसुरी में फूंक मारने से बांसुरी फट सकती है इसलिए उसे हाथो से रगड़ कर थोड़ा गर्म कर लेना चाहिए, उसके बाद बजाना चाहिए।
Thank you sir, for these valuable points on bansuri maintenance. These tips are practical, concise and they actually works. I have been already practicing some and will definitely try others as well .
In short, this blog was really helpful. Sir keep writing these kind of blogs on nuances of flute. Your experience is invaluable and we would love to hear about it more.
Good morning sir, that’s all I have read or learned about flute so far. This is the conclusion I can draw from that. Among the many species of bamboo, the bamboo used to make the flute is mainly grown in the region of Silchar, Assam, as each plant can grow according to its adaptation. For example, coconut cannot grow in the North East or hawthorn in the South.
So this bamboo is adapted to the climate and temperature of the region, which is neither too hot nor too cold, and if we take the flute made of it to a hot or cold place So the bamboo can crack or even bend. For this reason, the flute should be kept in safety from too hot or too cold a place.
Based on my observations, the following are potential explanations for Bansuri’s change in pitch
1. The amount of water in the environment also affects the pitch of the bansuri since wooden instruments tend to expand or contract, changing their nature or size in the process.
2. Changes in ambient temperature have an effect on sound speed; as a result, ambient medium average kinetic energy will change; higher kinetic energy corresponds to higher temperatures; lower temperatures correspond to lower kinetic energy of air/medium.
3. A fracture/Damage in the flute will be the obvious cause of the shift in pitch/quality of sound produced by the flute.
In order to preserve the durability and sound quality of the bansuri, proper care is essential. Following points mentioned below that we can keep in mind.
1. keeping Bansuri in a box/hard cover or a velvet/cloth cover
2. Proper oiling.
3. Gentle handling to prevent flute damage and keeping instrument safe.
4. Avoid subjecting Bansuri to hostile environments.
5. Clean Bansuri dampness from the inside and outside of Bansuri
6. Prevent fungus from developing inside the Bansuri.
The changes in sound of an Indian bamboo flute, also known as the bansuri, during different seasons are primarily due to the properties of the bamboo material and the atmospheric conditions. Here’s a detailed explanation:
1. Bamboo Properties: Bamboo is a natural material that is highly sensitive to changes in temperature and humidity. It expands or contracts with variations in these factors, which can affect the internal structure and shape of the flute. As a result, the sound produced by the flute may be altered.
2. Atmospheric Conditions: The air’s density and moisture content vary with different seasons. During winter, the air is denser and drier, while in summer, it becomes less dense and more humid. These variations impact the way sound waves travel through the air, affecting the overall sound produced by the flute.
To maintain a consistent sound on the flute throughout the seasons, here are some suggestions:
1. Proper Storage: Store your bamboo flute in a suitable case or cover when not in use. This helps protect it from extreme temperature and humidity changes. Ideally, store it in a cool and dry place away from direct sunlight or excessive moisture.
2. Regular Maintenance: Regularly inspect your flute for any cracks, splits, or damage. Ensure that it is in good condition and free from debris. Clean the flute with a soft cloth and, if necessary, use a mild bamboo flute oil to keep it moisturized.
3. Acclimatization: Allow your flute to acclimatize to the environmental conditions before playing. This can be done by exposing the flute to the prevailing temperature and humidity for a few minutes before playing. This helps the bamboo adjust and minimizes sudden changes in sound.
4. Adjusting the Embouchure: The embouchure refers to the way you position your lips and blow into the flute. Experiment with slight adjustments to find the sweet spot that produces the desired sound in different seasons. Pay attention to the breath control, lip pressure, and angle of the flute to optimize the sound quality.
5. Seek Professional Assistance: If you are experiencing significant difficulties in getting a consistent sound on your flute during different seasons, consider consulting a professional flute maker or an experienced bansuri player. They can offer specific advice tailored to your instrument and playing style.
By following these suggestions and adapting your playing technique, you can minimize the impact of seasonal changes and achieve a more consistent sound on your Indian bamboo flute throughout the year.
The Bansuri, also known as the Indian bamboo flute, is a traditional instrument that is highly influenced by environmental factors, including temperature and humidity. Changes in temperature can cause the Bansuri to expand or contract, leading to alterations in its pitch or “sur.” Here’s why these changes occur:
1. Temperature: In colder temperatures, the bamboo material of the Bansuri contracts, causing the instrument to become slightly shorter. This results in a higher pitch. Conversely, in warmer temperatures, the bamboo expands, making the Bansuri longer and producing a lower pitch.
2. Humidity: Humidity levels can also affect the Bansuri. Bamboo is hygroscopic, meaning it absorbs and releases moisture from the air. High humidity can make the bamboo absorb moisture, causing it to expand and the pitch to become lower. Conversely, low humidity can cause the bamboo to lose moisture, leading to contraction and a higher pitch.
To prevent or minimize these changes in the Bansuri’s sur, here are a few tips:
1. Store the Bansuri properly: When not in use, keep your Bansuri in a suitable case or cover to protect it from extreme temperature and humidity changes. This can help maintain its shape and prevent rapid expansion or contraction.
2. Acclimatize the Bansuri: Before playing the Bansuri, especially if you’re moving between significantly different environments, allow the instrument to adjust to the temperature and humidity conditions gradually. This can be done by keeping it in its case in the new environment for some time before playing.
3. Maintain consistent playing conditions: While it’s not always possible, try to practice or perform in environments with relatively stable temperature and humidity. Avoid extreme hot or cold conditions and sudden changes in humidity levels.
4. Make adjustments when necessary: If you notice a significant change in the Bansuri’s pitch due to environmental factors, you can make minor adjustments to the instrument. This can involve altering the position of the finger holes or adjusting the cork position, which may help compensate for the pitch variation.
Remember that the Bansuri is a natural instrument, and some degree of pitch variation with temperature and humidity changes is inevitable. By taking proper care of your Bansuri and being mindful of environmental conditions, you can minimize the impact of these changes and enjoy playing the instrument.
Additionally, in hot and dry weather conditions, the density of air decreases, making the sound travel faster and farther. This results in a sharper and clearer sound of the Bansuri in the summer compared to other seasons when the air is denser due to colder temperatures.
Moreover, the moisture content in the air also affects the sound quality of the Bansuri. In humid conditions, the Bansuri tends to sound softer and mellower due to the increased air resistance, which absorbs some of the high-frequency harmonics. However, in dry summer weather, the Bansuri produces a crisper and sharper sound due to the lower air resistance and the absence of water droplets in the air that can dampen the sound.
Overall, the combination of higher temperature, lower air density, and lower air resistance in the summer leads to a sharper and clearer sound of the Bansuri.
To avoid the Bansuri sounding sharper in the summer, we can try the following tips:
Store the Bansuri in a cool and dry place: High temperature and humidity can affect the Bansuri’s tuning and sound quality. You can store the Bansuri in a cool and dry place to avoid exposure to direct sunlight or heat.
Practice in a shaded area: If you want to practice the Bansuri in the summer, find a shaded area where the temperature is not too high. This can help you avoid the sound becoming too sharp due to the temperature.
Use a tuning app or device: You can use a tuning app or device to adjust the Bansuri’s pitch and ensure that it is in tune, regardless of the temperature.
Use a Bansuri with thicker walls: Thicker-walled Bansuris tend to produce a mellower sound than thinner-walled ones, which can help reduce the sharpness of the sound in the summer.
Overall, it is essential to take care of the Bansuri and keep it in good condition, regardless of the season, to ensure that it produces the best sound possible.
The frequency of the sound produced by the Bansuri is directly related to the speed of sound, which is affected by temperature. As the temperature increases, the speed of sound also increases, leading to a higher frequency and a sharper sound. This is why the Bansuri sounds sharper in the summer when the temperature is higher. Conversely, in the winter when the temperature is lower, the speed of sound is lower, resulting in a lower frequency and a mellower sound.
**One possible solution to maintain the same pitch in summer and winter is to adjust the length of the Bansuri. Since the resonant frequency of the Bansuri is directly proportional to its effective length, adjusting the length can compensate for the change in frequency due to the temperature.
To do this, we can measure the frequency of the Bansuri in both summer and winter and determine the difference in frequency. Then, you can calculate the required change in length to compensate for the temperature difference using the formula f = nv/(2*(L + 0.6*d)). Finally, we can adjust the length of the Bansuri accordingly using a sliding ring or by adding or removing a joint.
Alternatively, you can also adjust the blowing pressure to compensate for the change in frequency due to temperature. By blowing with a slightly higher pressure in the winter and a slightly lower pressure in the summer, you can maintain the same pitch. However, this requires more skill and experience as it can affect the overall sound and intonation of the Bansuri.
Overall, it is important to remember that adjusting the length or blowing pressure can affect the overall sound and intonation of the Bansuri, so it is best to consult with a teacher or experienced player before making any modifications.
some possible reasons for the distortion or change in pitch of a bamboo flute:
1 Environmental factors: Fluctuations in temperature and humidity can impact the bamboo material of the flute, leading to expansion or contraction. These changes in dimensions can result in alterations to the internal structure, causing a shift in pitch.
2 Bamboo quality: The quality of the bamboo used in crafting the flute can play a role. If the bamboo is of lower quality or contains irregularities, it may be more susceptible to pitch variations over time.
3 Moisture absorption: Being a natural material, bamboo can absorb moisture from the surroundings or the player’s breath. This moisture absorption can cause the bamboo to swell or change shape, ultimately leading to pitch distortion.
4 Physical damage: Accidental drops or mishandling of the flute can cause physical damage like cracks or warping in the bamboo. These structural changes can disrupt the airflow and result in pitch deviations.
5 Aging and wear: With time, bamboo flutes naturally undergo changes due to aging and wear. Continuous playing, exposure to moisture, temperature fluctuations, and physical stress can cause the bamboo to undergo changes in its properties, resulting in pitch deviations.
6 Manufacturing inconsistencies: Crafting flutes is a delicate art, and slight variations in the manufacturing process can affect the pitch. Inconsistent shaping, uneven thickness, or misalignment of the holes can lead to pitch distortions.
Please note that the reasons for pitch changes in a bamboo flute can vary depending on the specific instrument and its unique characteristics. Seeking advice from a flute maker or a professional repair technician can provide more specific insights tailored to your flute’s situation.
some possible reasons for the distortion or change in pitch of a bamboo flute:
1 Environmental factors: Fluctuations in temperature and humidity can impact the bamboo material of the flute, leading to expansion or contraction. These changes in dimensions can result in alterations to the internal structure, causing a shift in pitch.
2 Bamboo quality: The quality of the bamboo used in crafting the flute can play a role. If the bamboo is of lower quality or contains irregularities, it may be more susceptible to pitch variations over time.
3 Moisture absorption: Being a natural material, bamboo can absorb moisture from the surroundings or the player’s breath. This moisture absorption can cause the bamboo to swell or change shape, ultimately leading to pitch distortion.
4 Physical damage: Accidental drops or mishandling of the flute can cause physical damage like cracks or warping in the bamboo. These structural changes can disrupt the airflow and result in pitch deviations.
5 Aging and wear: With time, bamboo flutes naturally undergo changes due to aging and wear. Continuous playing, exposure to moisture, temperature fluctuations, and physical stress can cause the bamboo to undergo changes in its properties, resulting in pitch deviations.
6 Manufacturing inconsistencies: Crafting flutes is a delicate art, and slight variations in the manufacturing process can affect the pitch. Inconsistent shaping, uneven thickness, or misalignment of the holes can lead to pitch distortions.
Reason : Water content in surrounding air have impact to Bansuri’s pitch, Bansuri or any wooden instrument have tendency to swell by absorbing moisture from air, or shrink during winter dryness, so the Bansuri pitch will be impacted.
So, In the summer months, the bamboo may have a higher moisture content due to increased humidity levels, which can also contribute to the brighter tone of the bansuri.
Solution :
1. purchase only matured bamboo or seasoned bamboo flutes.
2. Clean the moisture which is created inside of the flute due to blowing, after the performance. Keep your flute outside your bag atleast 15-20 mins just after Riyaz.
3. Oil-treatment will help to keep your flute tuned for long time.
4. purchase flute which is prepared at temperature 25 degree, these flutes can easily adjust both hot and cold season.
5. please give a break for a couple of minutes after playing for 15-20 minutes.
6. Threading ensures long durability of your Bansuri.
7. Always Keep your flute inside flute bag when you are not playing it.
The pitch of a bamboo flute can be affected by various environmental factors, including changes in temperature and humidity. Here are some possible reasons for the distortion or change in pitch of a bamboo flute in hot days:
1.Expansion of the bamboo: Bamboo is a natural material that can expand or contract with changes in temperature and humidity. In hot weather, the bamboo of the flute may expand, causing the bore (the inside of the flute) to become narrower and changing the pitch.
2.Moisture content: Bamboo flutes are sensitive to changes in moisture content, and high temperatures can cause moisture to evaporate from the bamboo, making it drier and lighter. This can also affect the pitch of the flute.
3.Warping: If the bamboo is exposed to extreme heat or direct sunlight, it may warp or bend, which can also change the pitch of the flute.
4.Player’s breath: The temperature of the player’s breath can also affect the pitch of the bamboo flute. In hot weather, the player’s breath may be warmer, which can cause the air column inside the flute to expand and alter the pitch.
5.Atmospheric pressure: Changes in atmospheric pressure due to hot weather can also affect the pitch of the bamboo flute, although this is usually a minor effect.
Overall, it’s important to take good care of a bamboo flute and protect it from extreme temperatures and humidity to maintain its pitch and sound quality.
A bansuri or a bamboo flute’s pitch can change due to moisture, temperature, aging, playing technique, and manufacturing defects. Moisture and temperature changes can cause the bamboo to expand or contract, while aging can make it brittle and prone to cracking. Poor playing technique can also affect pitch, as can defects in the manufacturing process. Proper storage and maintenance can help prevent changes in pitch and tonal quality.
Solutions:
1. Place a silica gel packet inside the flute case to absorb any excess moisture.
2. Use a soft cloth to gently wipe the inside and outside of the bansuri after each use to remove any moisture or debris.
3. Avoid exposing the bansuri to direct sunlight or high temperatures, as this can cause the bamboo to expand and change the pitch.
4. Apply a light coat of mustard or sesame or almond oil to the outer surface of the bansuri to protect it from moisture and humidity, as sir has already said/uploaded a video about it.
5. In case the bansuri gets wet, dry it off immediately with a soft cloth and let it air dry in a cool, dry place.
6. If the bansuri gets too wet due to long plays or for some other reasons, use a hairdryer set to low heat or preferably keep the bansuri under a fan to dry the inside of the bansuri.
7. Lastly have the flute inspected and repaired by a professional if any issues arise.
These are a few of many ways we can prevent or reduce the chances of pitch change.
Thank you…
Sabse badi baat yah hai ki hamen Apne flute ko is tapti garmi se bachana hai kyunki garmi mein flute ki tuning alag Ho jaati Hai uske sur chadh jaate Hain. Aur bahut sari problems a sakti hain even cracks bhi aur agar baat ki jaaye to yah chij Keval garmi mein nahin Hoti thand mein bhi hoti hai thand mein bhi swar alag Ho jaate Hain kul milakar ke humko hamare fute ki caring ek chhote se bacche Jaise karni hoti hai garmi Ho thandi Ho ya barsat Ho har Mausam mein hamen isko alag tarike se care karna padta hai.
For example bacchon ko ham garmi mein alag kapde pehnate Hain sardi mein alag kapde pehnate Hain same isi tarike se hme hr mawsam me flute ko smbhal ke rkhna hota hai..
* Why tuning of flute gets changed during 🌞?
– Bamboo ek natural material hai to ye hr weather me alag react krta hai aur kai baar Bamboo 🎍 expand hota hai ya thoda fool jata hai .
Flute ki tuning jb ki gyi hoti hai wo phle ke according rhti hai tb flute well tuned hoti hai kyonki flute makers bahoot mehnt krte hain..
Pr hmare pass aane me hi flute dhaake khate aati hai isse bhi thodi tuning change hoti hai..
Aur to aur Bamboo ke expand hone ya shrink hone sw oski tuning chadh jati hai ya niche aa jati hai.
* How to take care of your flute?
– Jaise grmi me hm whin rhte hain jhan ka temperature 🌡️ shi hota hai rhne layak waise hi temperature me hm aoni flute ko bhi caring ke sath rkhe hain to kafi hd tk hm flute ko bacha skte hain.
Aur hm flute ko flute cover me rkhte hooye ager ek cloth me wrap krke rkhe to wo aur bhi ache se flute ko shi rkh payega.
Jaise thand me hm agr kapde me flute ko wrap krke rkhen to flute kafi shi rhti hai flute covers ke ander.
* Shi time oe shi tarike se clean na krne se bhi flute untuned ho jati hai to shi tarike se flute ki cleaning krte hooye hm ose shi rkh skte hain.
Sath hi sath hm mustard oil se flute ki oiling ahi time oe krke osko long life ke liye secure kr skte hain.
Mujhe bahoot nhi pta kyonki mai 6 mahinon se hi flute play kr rha.. pr ye zaroor kh skta hoon agr aap apne flute ka care apne bache ( child ke jaise kren ) ke jaise kren to mai sure hoon ki aapki flute aapka sath kvi nhi chhodegi .
Agr mujhse koi glt baat likhi gyi ho to mai Oske liye sorry bhi khta hoon
Phone number – 8810991449
Possible reasons for the distortion or change in pitch of a bamboo flute:
– Environmental factors: Fluctuations in temperature and humidity can impact the bamboo material, causing it to expand or contract and altering the internal structure.
– Bamboo quality: Lower quality bamboo or irregularities in the material can make the flute more prone to pitch variations.
– Moisture absorption: Bamboo naturally absorbs moisture, whether from the environment or the player’s breath, leading to swelling and changes in shape that affect pitch.
– Physical damage: Accidental drops or mishandling can result in cracks or warping of the bamboo, disrupting airflow and causing pitch deviations.
– Aging and wear: Over time, bamboo flutes undergo natural changes due to playing, exposure to moisture, temperature fluctuations, and physical stress, which can affect pitch.
– Manufacturing inconsistencies: Variations in the flute-making process, such as shape, thickness, or hole alignment, can introduce pitch distortions.
Bansuri ke hole uneven distance par kyu hote hain ?
Answer – Sir har sur ek particular frequency par perfectly play hota hai jaise agar ham Standred tuning ki baat kare to A scale ka Sa 440 Hz par bajta hai. Aur ye frequency hole ke distance aur diameter dono par depand karta hai. Agar ham hole ke distance ko same rakhe to hame hole ka diameter frequency ke according bahut bada ho sakta hai jisse uspar fingers perfectly fit nahi hongi. Yahi reason hai ki holes alag alag distance par hoti hain.
The very scientific reason of flutes getting higher in pitch in summer season is due to the density change in air, resulting in higher frequencies. (Keeping aside the factors like mishandling, quality of bamboo and so on)
In my opinion,
Basic maintenance is a prerequisite for flute care, but it wont stop the change in pitch according to the changing weather.
Hence, If you are enthusiastic about flutes, you definitely need a different set for summer (and winter) tuned according to your region, just like the way you need a different vehicle for off roading.
PS: Don’t take this characteristic as a flaw. Rather respect the beauty of the instrument and enjoy the overall process!
Thank You.
Very appropriate answer sir.
Thank you for your comments.
Regards
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Dear Dinesh Ji,
Good to see your lovely website . I just want to update your every subscriber that it has been almost 5-8 years I have
purchased flute from you and there is not even a single crack nor fungus or any change in bamboo shape or thread which I have noticed till day. One small advice for you, you are a dignified person so please do not unnecessarily involve yourself in any controversy with any other flute seller. I have seen people who are working with you they are not even loyal to you, many videos have surfaced online and I have also heard all controversies but please refrain from going in this type of work. Again we admire your work and also we want you to flourish because you have built your reputation not as a seller but being a disciple of Great Pandit Hariprasad Chaurasia ji and Pandit Rakesh Chaurasia Ji. So when you have your Guru,s blessings and also love of your well wishers then think about your Guru , always remain humble as you are it reflects in your character. Last bu not the least stay away from negative people. Just continue your good work. You will always spell magic everywhere.
Kind Regards,
Nishant Pant
New Delhi
Nishant Bhai thank you so much for your concern. Lekin woh toh kal ki baat thi bhai, hum toh aaj kahin dur likal gaye hain.
Aaap ke jsie well wisheres mere liye taqat hain. Guru janon ki kripa aur ashirvaar toh hai hi humare sath.
Thank you so so much…