Williams Headjoints

The Williams Flute Company was founded in 1990 by David C. Williams after more than twenty-five years as a performing musician across a range of genres. His search for a more responsive and flexible instrument led him to establish a workshop dedicated to flute design grounded in musical experience and empirical study.

Williams approaches flute construction from a player’s perspective, emphasizing practicality, resonance, and comfort. He describes his philosophy as “pragmatic,” focusing on what allows the music-making process to feel natural and unforced. Each flute and headjoint is built individually, one at a time, with meticulous attention to tonal color and mechanical balance.

The Williams headjoint was developed to provide the articulation and projection associated with Cooper-style designs, while reducing the brightness and “buzz” sometimes found in similar models. Its design emphasizes reinforced resonance — a method of strengthening the instrument’s natural vibration for a broad, colorful tone that retains control across the full dynamic range.

Williams headjoints are available in sterling silver and 14 K gold, with optional configurations such as gold risers or lip-plates on silver tubes. Each is hand-finished to achieve consistency of response and tonal depth.

Williams’s work reflects a balance of innovation and tradition, producing headjoints valued for their open sound, projection, and flexibility — hallmarks of contemporary Boston flute craftsmanship.