Transverse flute

Did you know…?

In 1869, the first gold flute in history was created, owned by French flutist Jean-Pierre Rampal, who was also known for promoting and restoring the popularity of the flute as a classical solo instrument.

About the transverse flute…

The transverse flute, also known as the side-blown flute, is a musical instrument similar to the recorder, but considered a much more complex and professional instrument than its simpler "older sister."

Despite being an instrument made almost entirely of metal, it belongs to the woodwind family because it was originally made of wood and gradually evolved into metal. However, there are also transverse flutes made of materials such as gold, silver, platinum, and various alloys today.

Context and some history

The transverse flute has existed in Europe since the 11th century, when it began to replace the recorder for more symphonic performances. However, despite being a characteristic musical instrument of Western music, the concept of the instrument originally comes from China, where it was already used since 900 BC. It was not until approximately 1100 that it became a military-type flute in German territory, and in 1832, Theobald Böhm applied the key system to it, culminating in the modern transverse flute. Since then, it has evolved into the instrument we know today, with Böhm's contribution being the most significant to date.

The parts of the transverse flute

The transverse flute is composed of three main parts: the headjoint, the body, and the footjoint, which can be disassembled after playing to store it in a smaller space. These are reassembled before playing thanks to the clamps and anchors that allow their assembly. The size of the transverse flute is about 67 centimeters in length and a tube diameter of almost 2 centimeters.

Headjoint:

This is the part closest to the musician when playing. It is in this part that the embouchure typical of wind instruments is located. In the case of the transverse flute, the embouchure also has a small metallic piece known as a "lip plate." The technique and experience of blowing will be decisive in making the instrument sound properly.

The body or tube

This is the longest part, as it covers most of the instrument's total length and is where the different holes and keys are located. The transverse flute consists of 13 holes with different keys (open and closed holes) to create various sound alterations. Levers, springs, and pads are also included in this part of the instrument. Finally, the ribs of the transverse flute hold the different keys together.

The footjoint

This is the final part of the instrument, the furthest from the musician when playing, and the smallest of all.

The sound of the transverse flute and where to hear it

The transverse flute produces a sweet and pleasant sound, which can range from long-duration notes to shorter ones.

This musical instrument stands out greatly in classical music, so it is often found in symphony orchestras and also in chamber music. However, over the years, it has wonderfully adapted to other musical styles such as Tango, Celtic music, Jazz, flamenco, rock, among others.

How the transverse flute works

As an aerophone musical instrument, the transverse flute can produce sound thanks to the vibration of air projected through its different parts and, obviously, thanks to the musician's blowing technique and playing skill. Unlike other woodwind instruments, it does not require a wooden reed in the embouchure.

Playing this musical instrument requires the use of both hands and a horizontal placement of the instrument (perpendicular to the musician). On the other hand, by means of multiple levers, the holes are closed and released, producing different notes and sounds.

It should be noted that the transverse flute is considered one of the most difficult wind instruments to play, as it is hard to "get the hang of" the embouchure to generate the desired sound, it requires a great deal of air power, and the posture that must be maintained is relatively uncomfortable and difficult to sustain, despite not weighing as much as other wind instruments.

The transverse flute is one of the most popular wind instruments in the world. However, it is not the only flute used, far from it. In today's market, there are many types of flutes, which is not surprising considering that flutes are one of the instrument typologies with the longest history.

Buying a transverse flute or any other type of flute can be a complicated decision. At NEOmúsica, we invite you to resolve any questions you may have if you are considering buying a transverse flute. Contact us or call us to answer any questions you may have.