footjoint

A footjoint is a component of some woodwind instruments, most notably the flute. It is a short, interchangeable section that attaches to the main body of the instrument, typically at the bottom. The primary function of the footjoint is to extend the range of the instrument downwards, allowing the player to produce lower notes.

On the flute, the footjoint houses the keys for the lowest three notes of the standard range: C, C#, and D. Different types of footjoints exist, with the most common being the standard C footjoint, which extends the instrument's range to low C. A rarer but also available option is the B footjoint, which further extends the range to low B. The B footjoint is longer and includes an additional key mechanism to achieve this lower note. The choice between a C and B footjoint can affect the instrument's intonation, tonal color, and the player's embouchure and technique.

The footjoint contributes to the overall sound of the instrument. Its length and the presence or absence of the B extension can subtly alter the resonance and projection of the lower register. Flute makers often design the footjoint in conjunction with the rest of the instrument to ensure optimal balance and playability. The material and construction of the footjoint, like other parts of the flute, can also influence its tonal characteristics.