HI !! Guys please tell me the advantages and disadvantages of using cork as keypads for the flute. Thanks

Im an adult beginner to flute. I can feel heaviness on some of my fingers thats why im planning to buy a flute with cork in the keys

Not exactly sure what you mean by "keypads". Cork pads are not used on flute. Are you talking about filling the open key holes with cork stoppers or having the bumpers made of cork?

Joe B

I have seen a piccolo that had cork pads on it. Never on a flute, though.

I don't know what the advantages or disadvantages are.

Cork can be used for the trill keys and D# key bumper. Alternatively, a neoprene material can be used. As far as I can tell, I have had no problems with either material.

I haven't heard of cork being used in place of a key pad, though.

A piccolo can be padded with cork, which mine was, and I understand that it does well in a humid environment. In our dry climete, cork isn't really necessary. I have heard that Straubinger pads are a real pain in this sort of climate, too. Felt key pads with normal 'fishskin' works very well here.

So its only used for the piccolo. Well I've got this idea coz I know cork are more durable or can withstand the heavier and uneven pressure of tight fingers. Because of this heaviness, usual keypads may easilly be worn out thus requiring replacement within a short time.
What maybe the reason cork are not used as pads in the flute?

If corks are used in piccolo as keypads, then probably an adult beginner with heavy or thight fingers(coz of older age)may play the piccolo. The effect on cork pads maybe little.

I believe on oboes cork pads are only used on open holed keys.

On most beginner models, they are cork pads on the 'B' key and 'E' key. The rest of the pads are white.

But on most pro models, all pads are cork.