Flutes

The flute/piccolo is a high-pitched woodwind instrument with a history that spans thousands of years, making it one of the oldest instruments still in use today. While modern concert flutes are typically made of metal, they belong to the woodwind family due to their method of tone production—air blown across a mouth hole rather than through a reed.

Evolving through many forms, the Western concert flute took its modern shape in the 19th century, refined by Theobald Boehm. With its bright, clear sound and agile nature, the flute shines across musical genres, from classical orchestras to jazz and even pop.

The "Magic" Sine Wave: When played in its highest register, the Western flute produces a sound wave that is almost a perfect sine wave, making it one of the "purest" sounds in the orchestral world.

One fun fact about the modern Western concert flute is that it requires more air to play than a tuba.

At RE, the flute section brings shimmer and sparkle to the ensemble. Whether soaring above the melody or weaving intricate runs, the flute lends lightness, energy, and elegance. We’re the breeze in a ballad and the sparkle in a fanfare—always ready to lift the music to new heights!