Flute
The modern silver flute is valued for its bright tone and technical versatility.
flute
musical instrument
Also known as: Flöte, concert flute, flûte
flute, wind instrument in which sound is produced by directing a stream of air against a sharp edge, causing the air to split and create vibrations within the enclosed air column. This process, known as edge-tone generation, produces a clear, sustained pitch without the use of reeds. 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,...
Discover the world with Britannica
Subscribe to Continue Reading
Free Trial
|
No Ads
|
Exclusive Content
Explore Subscriptions
