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Flute Family

Introduction

Flutes are the highest member of the woodwind family. There are usually three or four flutes in the Wind Symphony, along with one piccolo. Flute are played by blowing across a hole in one end (the head) and the pitch varies by a combination of fingering and embouchure.

History

Originally made of wood, flutes are now metal and are unique in being the only woodwind instrument that doesn't use wood to produce the sound.

Piccolo

The highest member of the woodwind family, the piccolo (in C) provides a shrill, exciting a penetrating sound.

Flute

The most common member of the flute family, also in C, is famed for its dexterity and sweet sound.

Alto Flute

Looks like a large flute, and provides a haunting sound, much smoother than the regular flute. Occasionally used in solos.

Bass Flute

The bass flute is twice the length of the regular flute, and hence an octave lower. Very rarely heard in wind symphonies, as its sound does not carry well.