Flute Maker
David Houston was a Doctor of Musical Arts candidate in flute performance at Indiana University when he accepted the position of Marketing Director for Verne Q. Powell Flutes in 1990. He was Director of Customer Service, flute finisher and headjoint tester when he left Powell Flutes in 1998 to work for Brannen Brothers Flute Makers.
In 2007 he was asked to return to Powell Flutes as Director of Quality and Finishing/Repair Department Manager. During his 20 year tenure at Powell and Brannen, Mr. Houston was directly involved in and responsible for many various facets of flute, piccolo and headjoint design and construction, as well as employee training.
In 2012 he began a collaboration with flutemaker, colleague and longtime friend, Lev Levit, to produce the exclusively handcrafted Levit Flutes. Levit Flutes are now played by flutists all over the globe.
“David Houston is gifted as both a flutist and a craftsman. As a fine player, he has a great capacity to understand the experiences players have with their instruments, and his skills at the workbench allow him to help players achieve their performance goals. I admire his unique blend of flute knowledge, mechanical insight and positive energy.”
