Frequently Asked Questions
  • General
  • What are the main differences between the Thumpy Classic (Pro) and Thumpy Junior?
    Both the Classic (Pro) as well as the Junior are made out of wood. The Junior is machine-made out of a general type of maple, which

    However, the Classic (Pro) is fully handmade out of a high-quality wood, which has been well-dried and fully oil-impregnated. This treatment also explains why it is more expensive. The Junior is made out of a lighter maple wood. Also, the Classic models get a unique serial number, which the Junior does not have. Both flutes come with a bag, where the bag that comes with the Classic is out of a higher quality cloth.
  • What are the differences in the various woods of the Thumpy Classic and Thumpy Classic Pro?
    The Classic Pro is exclusively made out of the heavy and dense African Blackwood (also mentioned Grenadill or Ebony). The Classic can be made out of various precious woods incliding Olive; Sugar Maple; Gonzalo Alves; Cocobolo; King Wood.
  • Are there also other sizes of Thumpy flute available?
    While we have been doing many experimenting with different sizes, we don't have other sizes for sale at this moment.
  • Is it difficult to play the Thumpy flute?
    No. Anyone can play the Thumpy. Beginners usually enjoy to develop a flute sound and act more spontaneous compared to playing the Boehm-flute. However, advanced flutists usually enjoy the simplicity and directness of Thumpy and use it for developing their flexibility and sound.
  • What is the tuning of the Thumpy flute?
    Thumpy is a very 'analogue' instrument, which can produce many 'micro-tones', which we cannot find on the piano. Also, the exact pitch is strongly depending on the playing, especially on the difference in embouchure positioning. The basic pitches are F - Ab - C - Eb - F.
  • Educational
  • How old a child can start playing the Thumpy?
    Difficult to say precisely, but 7 years or even younger is possible. Main point is or he/she can close the endings with the thumbs (the centre ending-holes are 14 millimeter).
  • Is it a good idea to first learn to play Thumpy before switching to the Boehm-flute?
    Yes, certainly, this is one of the thoughts behind the Thumpy concept.
  • Maintenance Thumpy Classic (Pro)
  • Should I dry my Thumpy Classic (Pro) after playing?
    It is advised to dry the flute after playing. To do so, use a rod or stick with a cloth connected (like a flute-cleaner or recorder-cleaner) or a rope with a cloth (like saxophone cleaner). Use the included bag to store it safely and away from heating or direct sunlight.
  • Do I have to oil my Thumpy Classic (Pro)?
    The Thumpy Classic (Pro) has been fully oil-impregnated. This means that it went through a process in which it stayed in an oil- bath for several days. To keep it in good shape, just rub the flute frequently with a soft cloth. Depending on usage, one can apply a very little oil once a while, like twice a year, to the outside and inside of the flute, rubbing it strongly with a cloth or rod until the oil is absorbed. Use some wood-oil or otherwise olive oil will also do.
  • Maintenance Thumpy Junior
  • Should I dry my Thumpy Junior after playing?
    It is advised to dry the flute after playing. To do so, use a rod or stick with a cloth connected (like a flute-cleaner or recorder-cleaner) or a rope with a cloth (like saxophone cleaner). Use the included bag to store it safely and away from heating or direct sunlight.
  • Do I have to oil my Thumpy Junior?
    The Thumpy Junior has been prepared with paraffin for enlarging and stabilizing the sound. To keep it well, just rub the flute frequently with a soft cloth.
  • The wood of my Thumpy gets dry or turns white at some spots. What can I do?
    At some places, especially near the embouchure hole and at the endings where you hold the flute, the surface may get dry. To prevent this, one may apply a little oil and rub it strongly with a soft cloth until the oil has been absorbed. Use some wood-oil or otherwise olive oil will also do. To prevent the white colored wood from getting black or dirty, it is advised to always play it with clean hands. To remove any possible black or dirt one can use a very light sandpaper and apply oil afterwards.
  • Sales
  • Where can I buy the Thumpy flute?
    A most simple way to order your Thumpy flutes and books is to visit the Studio E Online Shop or contact directly with Studio E.
  • More
  • I have a question, no mentioned above. Where can I send my question?
    Click here.