Powell Flutes Information

The history of our company is inseparably linked to our founder and namesake, Verne Q. Powell. Originally a jeweler by trade, Powell crafted his first flute in 1910 using silver coins, watch cases, and spoons. This remarkable feat of craftsmanship earned him a position at a prominent flute maker in Boston, where he worked until 1926 before establishing his own company. His vision was clear: to create the world’s finest French-inspired flutes, instruments defined by artistry, precision, and beauty. From the outset, Powell’s instruments were recognized as the pinnacle of flute making, quickly earning the admiration of leading flutists worldwide. In 1928, he completed his first flute entirely in 14K gold, soon followed by piccolos and alto flutes. By 1930, Powell flutes were represented in many of America’s leading orchestras, including those of Boston, Detroit, Philadelphia, Cleveland, Baltimore, and New York. Innovation has remained a hallmark of Powell Flutes for nearly a century. The company was the first to commercially produce flutes with the Cooper Scale, the first to combine silver and gold with the revolutionary Aurumite flute, and the first to introduce flutes in 19.5K Rose Gold. In 2011, Powell reached new heights—literally—when NASA astronaut Cady Coleman brought her handmade Powell flute aboard the International Space Station, making it the first handmade flute to be played in space. In 2016, Verne Q. Powell Flutes, Inc. became part of the Buffet Crampon family, joining nine other prestigious brands to form the world’s largest group of wind instrument manufacturers. One year later, the company proudly celebrated its 90th anniversary—a milestone honoring Powell’s enduring legacy of innovation, craftsmanship, and artistry, established in 1927 and carried forward with passion to this day.