Flutes

The Flute is the best known of the Woodwind instruments.  Its bright, breathy tone is suited to introducing gentle melodies, attempting daring runs or faithfully supporting a solo instrument within the orchestra.

Flutes can be either transverse (sideblown) as in the orchestral variety or endblown (the recorder family).  There are three members of the modern Transverse Flute family; the Flute, Alto Flute and Piccolo.   All three have the same key system so a flautist may effortlessly play whichever is required.  The complicated key system was developed in the 1830's by Theobald Boehm and consists of 16 circular keys which can be closed by means of axles and levers.

Mozart's three flute concertos and Debussy's 'Prelude a l'apres-midi d'un faune' and his 'Syrinx' are fine examples of Flute music.

Approximate Range	3 octaves
Flute Length	67cm
Alto Flute Length	87cm