end-blown flute

musical instrument

Also known as: vertical flute

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June 26, 2026

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An end-blown flute is a musical instrument where sound is produced by blowing air across the rim of a tube, causing the air column inside to vibrate. This method, known as edge-tone generation, creates a clear, sustained pitch without the need for reeds. The simplest form is an open tube closed at one end, like a piece of bamboo.12

These instruments have ancient origins, with bone flutes dating back at least 35,000 years found in Germany. Examples of end-blown flutes include the Balkan kaval, the Arabic nay, and panpipes. Some end-blown flutes have a notch cut into the edge to help produce sound.31

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flute
Types of flutes
In vertical, end-blown flutes—such as the Balkan kaval, the Arabic nāy, and the panpipes—the player directs the breath across the rim of the tube. In China, South America, Africa, and elsewhere, a notch may be cut in the edge to facilitate sound generation (notched flutes). In…
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In vertical, end-blown flutes—such as the Balkan kaval, the Arabic nāy, and the panpipes—the player directs the breath across the rim of the tube. In China, South America, Africa, and elsewhere, a notch may be cut in the edge to facilitate sound generation (notched flutes). In…
Read More

wind instrument
Flutes
The Egyptian flute is vertical, about 3 feet (90 cm) long and 0.5 inch (1.3 cm) wide, and is easily end-blown because of its narrow embouchure. Near the lower end, there are two to six finger holes. The instruments still exist and are known by the Persian name nāy.
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The Egyptian flute is vertical, about 3 feet (90 cm) long and 0.5 inch (1.3 cm) wide, and is easily end-blown because of its narrow embouchure. Near the lower end, there are two to six finger holes. The instruments still exist and are known by the Persian name nāy.
Read More