cylindrical bore

wind instrument

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Last updated

June 25, 2026

Quick Summary

A cylindrical bore is a key feature in certain wind instruments, influencing their sound production. In instruments like the flute and recorder, a cylindrical bore allows for the production of harmonics that are multiples of the fundamental frequency. This contributes to a clear, pure tone.1

In contrast, instruments like the clarinet also have a cylindrical bore but function acoustically as a closed tube due to a reed end. This configuration emphasizes odd harmonics, resulting in a distinct timbre. The bore's shape is crucial for determining the instrument's harmonic series and, consequently, its unique sound quality.1

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Bore configuration and harmonicity
Cylindrical and conical bores can produce resonances that are harmonics of the fundamental frequencies, but bores that flare faster than a cone create nonharmonic overtones and thus produce raucous tones rather than good musical sounds. A fact discovered by early musical instrument builders, this is…
Read More
Cylindrical and conical bores can produce resonances that are harmonics of the fundamental frequencies, but bores that flare faster than a cone create nonharmonic overtones and thus produce raucous tones rather than good musical sounds. A fact discovered by early musical instrument builders, this is…
Read More