Instruments of the Modern Symphony Orchestra/FLUTE

by Arthur Edward Johnstone

FLUTE

Ernest F. Wagner
N.Y. Philharmonic Orchestra

The flute and the piccolo are the only wood-wind instruments played without a reed, the performer blowing across a hole in the side instead of into the end of the tube. As in all other wood-wind instruments, differences in pitch are obtained by opening and closing the finger-holes and keys.

The flute is usually made of wood, though metal flutes, provided with various and elaborate key-systems, are by no means uncommon. The most perfect modern type is known as the Boehm flute. Named after Theobald Boehm, who in 1832, modified and greatly improved its construction and intonation. Boehm flutes are made of wood or of silver—either solid or plated.

The flute is the most agile of all the wind instruments, and with the exception of the piccolo, the highest in pitch. It is equally effective in staccato and legato passages. Repeated notes may be rapidly executed by "double-tonguing."

The sombre, low notes are very characteristic, but are useful only in solos or in soft combinations. The medium register, is sweet and liquid; the highest notes, brilliant and piercing.

Symphony orchestras usually require three flute players, the third of whom is provided also with a piccolo, to be used when required by the score.

The range of the flute is:

ERNEST F. WAGNER
N. Y. PHILHARMONIC ORCHESTRA