Another Video

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9goCHL2r3Og&feature=related <---here is another video by "heathermayflute" on Youtube called Mona Lisa. Enjoy!! :)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pDTEsGQF81Q <-----this is a solo on a Concert Flute. I do not own this video it is copyright of the user "heathermayflute" on Youtube.

The Piccolo

This is the highest Woodwind instrument in any band or orchestra. It is of cylindrical bore, and fitted with Boehm-system keywork. It is pitched one octave higher than the Concert Flute. The range on the Piccolo shoots from the D above middle C to three octaves above it. It was created in the 18th century as a replacement for the Flageolet.

The Treble Flute

The Treble Flute, based in the key of G, is halfway between a Flute and a Piccolo. It is an octave above the Alto Flute. It has a distinctive color and a strong, clear sound; it's usually responsible for the melody in a song. There is an ease of response from this instrument through all registers, and it is ideal for Flute bands, or beginners on the Flute.

The Concert Flute

This is the most common Flute used in bands or orchestra. It is typically a beginner Flute, for it doesn't have the weight of the Bass, or the tiny buttons of the Piccolo. It can be carried through one's life as a wonderful instrument despite its beginner's reputation. This Flute is based in the key of C, and its range is over 3 octaves, beginning at the middle C. A few of the Concert Flutes may have a B foot, which simply means they can reach a low B flat underneath the staff. One beautiful piece featuring a Flute solo is "The Light Eternal" by James Swearingen.

The Tenor Flute

There is not much information to hold about this flute, as it is not common. It is formally known or also known as the Flute D'Amore in B Flat. It has been in existence since Medieval Times. This flute is pitched one step lower than the C-Flute.

The Alto Flute

The Alto Flute is over one hundred years old, since it began. This instrument is a "transposing" instrument, meaning that any music written for it is actually a pitch different than how it actually sounds. Typically, it is notated a 4th above its actual sound. The range of this flute is from G right below the middle C, to the G three octaves above it. Two pieces featuring the Alto Flute are "The Right of Spring" by Igor Stravinsky, and "The Planets" by Gustav Holst. The Alto has a mellower tone than most flutes, so it is usually given a supporting role, rather than a lead role. Altos can be either straight or curved in terms of the head joint; most smaller players use the curved head joint. Altos may cost at least 1,000 dollars if not more.

The Bass Flute

This flute evolved in 1920 as a replacement for a saxophone. It's a complete octave lower than the concert flute, though it has the same fingerings. They have a J-shaped head, and produce a haunting melody in the lower keys. The bass typically has a B-foot, while concert flutes typically have a C-foot. Many who play this flute have a string to hold it upright, as it is much heavier than a concert flute. One other solution to this problem is taking a black stand, flip it over, place a towel over the top, and rest the end of your flute on top. The recommended brand is Jupiter, if you're looking for a cheaper, yet higher quality Bass Flute.

First Day!!

Well, it's my first day with the new blog, and I'm not sure as to what I can say besides the fact that I am dedicated to the Flute. I know everything there is to know about them, their origin, their history, and some beautiful pieces with flute solos. I own a Bass Flute, a Contrabass Flute, an Alto Flute, a Soprano Flute, and a Piccolo. If you have any questions, feel free to ask! Also, vote at the bottom of the page what you thought about the blog!

Thanks!
Phasia <3