Thumbport Flute Thumb Guide (Grey)

Description

The Thumbport is a right thumb balance device for flute players, allowing for greater balance in holding the flute. It is comprised of a C-shaped shell and a thumb-like extension. The Thumbport helps the player to place the right thumb at an efficient spot and provides additional support.

The Thumbport is available in 6 colours: Grey-Copper, Grey-White, Green-White, Light Blue-White, Pink-White, Purple (Lavender)-White. Constructed with both soft and hard plastics, the Thumbport will not scratch the flute and will stay securely in place.

Analysis

Mechanically, there are three factors associated with balancing a flute:

• The mass (weight) of the flute
• Horizontal rotation
• Axial rotation

The gravity centre of a flute is located slightly to the right of the left index finger. When the knuckle of the left index finger takes up most of the weight of a flute at number 2, the small remaining weight is often assumed by the right thumb.

When playing a flute, the player pushes the embouchure plate against the chin. With the left index finger both supporting and pushing, the flute might rotate clockwise without a counter force from the right hand.

Additionally, the uneven weight of the flute mechanism contributes to another rolling tendency. The flute rolls backwards toward the player.

Because nine of our fingers are used to operate keys on a flute, only one, the right thumb, is left to decisively balance it. Many flutists knowingly or unknowingly use their right little finger to help. In doing so, it reduces the agility of not only the little finger but also the other right hand fingers.

The Thumbport Solution

The Thumbport guides one’s right thumb to support the flute at an angle. The force created by this angle can be seen as the sum of two partial vectors: one supports the flute from below and the other counters the horizontal rotation. The extension arm rests on the thumb gently, which easily prevents the flute from rolling backwards.

How to Use

First, make sure the flute body is free of sweat and grease. If you have a new flute, it may be a good idea to wipe it with rubbing alcohol. This will reduce the chance for the Thumbport to move from its place.

Snap the Thumbport onto the flute at around the F key.

The tip of the right thumb should push against the flute at point A (image below), and at an angle (roughly 30° to 45°). The extension arm of the Thumbport should rest naturally on the side of the thumb at point B (image below). One can scoot the Thumbport toward or away from the rib depending upon individual requirements. Because the contact surface is made of a soft plastic, it does not slide easily once in place.