There are so many awesome things that happen when I attend a conference–meeting with my awesome reps, networking, and probably my most favorite: trying new instruments and products. At this year’s National Association of Music Merchants (NAMM) convention in Anaheim, CA, I had the opportunity to try an amazing new product that is gaining tons of popularity in the flute and other wind instrument world: the LefreQue.
Yes, it sounds weird, but it’s actually amazing! This product uses a combination of science and magic (well, okay, maybe just science) to improve the structural function of any wind instrument by bridging the “broken” pieces that connect the mouthpiece or pieces of the body. It consists of two small overlapping metal plates (available in a variety of metals such as brass, silver, gold plated silver, and 14k gold) that are shaped with a small curve and include four small contact points on the bottom. They are held to the instrument with an elastic band. The way that it enhances the sound of the instrument is fascinating: in essence, it fuses the molecular structure of the instrument so that the fundamental and overtones travel at the same speed. This makes for a sound that is more in tune with itself, projects much more, and can be heard at any dynamic level.
And here’s the thing…IT REALLY WORKS! Picture a giant exhibition hall, full of everything from electric guitars to basses to drum sets; no way a flute playing softly could be heard, right? Under normal circumstances, yes. But after I attached a silver LefreQue to my flute, both of my colleagues could EASILY hear me playing pianissimo from 10 feet away. No kidding! Be on the lookout for more information on these products in the next few months!