flute
A woodwind instrument played by blowing across a hole, producing a bright, clear tone.
In Depth
The modern concert flute is made of metal (usually silver or a silver alloy) and produces sound when the player blows a focused stream of air across the embouchure hole. Unlike other woodwinds, the flute has no reed — the air itself is split by the edge of the hole to create vibration.
The flute has been part of human music-making for thousands of years. Bone flutes dating back 40,000 years have been found in European caves. The modern Boehm-system flute, developed in the 19th century, gave the instrument full chromaticism and consistent intonation. Its bright, clear tone makes it one of the most versatile orchestral instruments.
A 40,000-year-old bone flute found in a German cave is the oldest known musical instrument. It was carved from a vulture's wing bone by Neanderthals or early modern humans.