THE RISER AND ITS ACOUSTIC IMPORTANCE

The riser of a headjoint — the internal wall that creates air resistance — plays a fundamental role in intonation accuracy and note stability across the entire range of the transverse flute.

According to Albert Cooper, acoustician and flute maker, a riser wall measuring between 4.9 and 5.2 mm, with a 7° inclination toward an embouchure opening of 10 × 12 mm, provides an optimal balance. This configuration allows the flutist precise breath control, stable notes, and smooth transitions between octaves.