AZUMI

AZUMI – flutes with ALTUS technology

AZUMI is aimed at flute players moving beyond a student instrument or looking to enter the class of silver-headjoint and silver-body flutes. The instruments benefit from the experience of Japanese flute maker ALTUS. Particularly important are the handcrafted ALTUS headjoints, whose embouchure-hole design and material selection have a major influence on the playing feel of each series. The range is divided into the Z Series with Z1, Z2 and Z3 and the S Series with S2 and S3.

Z Series with Z-Cut and sterling silver

The Z Series uses the distinctive angular Z-Cut embouchure hole. According to the manufacturer, this concept is designed for quick, easy response, a powerful tone and precise tonal focus. Sterling silver with a silver content of 92.5 percent is a defining material within the range. The three model levels differ mainly in how extensively this material is used in the headjoint and body.

Z1, Z2 and Z3 compared

On the Z1, the lip plate and riser are made from 925 sterling silver, while the headjoint tube and body are made from silver-plated nickel silver. The Z2 goes one step further with a complete sterling-silver headjoint combined with a silver-plated nickel-silver body. The Z3 is the highest level within the Z Series: both headjoint and body are made from 925 sterling silver. This allows players to progress within one model family from selected silver components to a full silver-body flute.

S Series with S-Cut and Britannia silver

The S Series follows a different playing and tonal concept with its oval-shaped S-Cut. According to AZUMI, it offers slightly greater positive blowing resistance and is aimed particularly at advanced players looking for a wide range of tonal colours and nuanced dynamic control. Britannia silver with a silver content of 95.8 percent is used for the headjoints and, depending on the model, the body.

S2 and S3 for advanced flute players

The S2 combines a handcrafted ALTUS S-Cut headjoint made from Britannia silver with a silver-plated nickel-silver body. On the S3, both headjoint and body are made from Britannia silver. The S3 therefore particularly suits players looking for a flute made extensively from a high-grade silver alloy together with the characteristic S-Cut playing feel.

Open holes, closed holes, C foot or B foot

AZUMI offers different mechanical configurations across the range. Depending on the model, players can choose closed holes or open holes, C foot or B foot and Offset G or Inline G. Many versions feature a split E mechanism and pointed key arms, while selected models are also available with a C-sharp trill key. For advanced players, these options are important because keywork and footjoint configuration influence both ergonomics and technical possibilities.

Which AZUMI flute suits you?

Players moving up from a traditional student flute can use the Z1 or Z2 as an introduction to instruments with sterling-silver components. The Z3 is interesting when a full sterling-silver body is desired together with the direct and focused Z-Cut concept. S2 and S3 are more strongly aimed at players who appreciate the slightly greater resistance of the S-Cut and its nuanced tonal possibilities. The key system, G configuration and choice of C or B foot should also match the player’s experience, hand ergonomics and repertoire.

Buy AZUMI flutes at Kirstein

AZUMI offers a clearly graduated selection from high-quality step-up instruments to silver-body flutes for advanced players. Z1, Z2 and Z3 combine the Z-Cut concept with sterling silver, while S2 and S3 pair the S-Cut with Britannia silver. At Kirstein you can compare AZUMI with other flutes and also benefit from a 3 Year Kirstein Warranty and, when required, knowledgeable specialist advice on flute mechanisms, model configurations and the right level for your playing.