Lafin Headjoints

J.R. Lafin (born 1940) began his career as a professional flutist after studies with Dr. Demmler and Aurèle Nicolet. His final performing position was First Piccolo Flutist with the Berlin Radio Symphony Orchestra, frequently appearing with the Berlin Philharmonic under conductors such as Herbert von Karajan. His experience in these orchestras deeply influenced his sensitivity to tone and sound color.

In 1979, Lafin turned to flute repair and instrument building, later traveling to Japan for training at the Muramatsu factory. Influenced by flutists’ feedback about headjoints and by his admiration for Albert Cooper, he began developing his own headjoints and tools, eventually collaborating with Cooper on models that refined tone and response.

Lafin became one of the first makers to specialize exclusively in flute headjoints, helping to establish the modern practice of pairing headjoints and flute bodies from different makers. Over several decades, his work has earned an international reputation for craftsmanship, flexibility, and a characteristic blend of warmth and brilliance.

Since 2008, Lafin headjoints have been handcrafted and distributed in collaboration with Brannen Brothers Flutemakers Inc. in Woburn, Massachusetts. Lafin personally trained Brannen’s headjoint makers to produce headjoints to his exacting standards. These are genuine Lafin headjoints, not copies, made under his supervision and sold through both Lafin and Brannen Brothers under equivalent conditions.

Lafin continues to oversee research and refinement of his designs, ensuring consistent quality and responsiveness for professional flutists worldwide.