For sale is an incredibly rare, custom-configured masterpiece of American flute making: a Pre-Owned Verne Q. Powell Aurumite Conservatory Flute, serial number HC-5698. Handcrafted by the legendary artisans at Powell in Boston, the Conservatory model offers the world-class acoustic scale and handmade mechanism that professionals demand.
This specific instrument is a true "unicorn." It is fully crafted from Powell's proprietary Aurumite (solid silver fused with 9k gold) and features a highly customized keywork setup: closed tone holes on the left hand and open tone holes on the right hand. To top it all off, this flute was originally purchased and rigorously maintained by the United States Air Force. Instruments selected for premier military bands are heavily vetted for world-class acoustic quality, making this a phenomenal opportunity for a discerning player.
This is the ultimate instrument for the dedicated collegiate major, gigging professional, or advancing flutist with specific ergonomic needs. The custom half-open/half-closed keywork is brilliant for players who want the absolute security and physical ease of closed holes on the top joint, while retaining the venting benefits and alternate fingering capabilities of open holes on the bottom joint. If you want the profound, golden warmth of Aurumite with a one-of-a-kind mechanism, this is your flute.
The "Powell Aurumite" Advantage
- Full Aurumite Construction: The tubing is crafted from Aurumite, Powell's famous fusion of 9k gold and sterling silver. This material offers the best of both worlds: the deep, velvety, and complex tonal colors of gold, paired with the brilliant projection and quick response of silver.
- Custom Keywork Setup: Features closed tone holes for the left hand and French (open) tone holes for the right hand, an Inline G, and a Split E mechanism for effortless, perfectly in-tune high E's.
- B Footjoint with Gizmo Key: Extends the lower range to a low B and provides beneficial acoustic resistance in the extreme upper register. The included Gizmo key makes high C response lightning-fast and secure.
- Ex-USAF Pedigree: You are getting an instrument that was built, vetted, and maintained to perform perfectly at the highest national level.
Condition Report & Shop Prep
- Finish (Cosmetics): Excellent Player's Condition. The Aurumite tubing is absolutely gorgeous. There is no major damage, denting, or trauma whatsoever. It shows only minor, standard surface-level "feather scratching" from honest, careful use.
- Body: The keywork is tight, snappy, and wonderfully responsive. Our expert in-house technicians have fully inspected and play-tested this flute to ensure the pads are sealing perfectly and the custom mechanism is regulated to precise factory specifications right out of the case.
Specifications
- Brand: Verne Q. Powell
- Model: Aurumite Conservatory
- Serial Number: HC-5698
- Body/Headjoint Material: Aurumite (Gold/Silver Fusion)
- Key Setup: Custom (Left Hand: Closed Hole / Right Hand: Open Hole)
- G Key: Inline G
- Mechanism Upgrades: Split E Mechanism
- Footjoint: B Footjoint with Gizmo Key
- Provenance: Ex-United States Air Force (USAF)
- Condition: Pre-Owned / Excellent Custom Professional Condition
- Included: Original Powell Hard Case
Why Choose Fleming Music?
Here at Fleming Instruments, our expert on-site instrument repair workshop guarantees that each instrument we sell is meticulously inspected and accurately represented before it reaches you. We take pride in offering a 1-year warranty and 2-week return policy on all instruments, giving you peace of mind with your investment. Our team is dedicated to providing exceptional customer service, so please reach out to us at the shop via phone, email, or website contact: .
For the most competitive pricing, financing options, or to discuss a trade-in, please contact us directly!
As always, we invite you to stop by our Houston shop to try this instrument in person. Nothing compares to the experience of a horn in your own hands. Follow our accounts on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube for the latest updates, content, and promotions: . We are grateful for your support of our small business and look forward to helping you find your sound!
