Flute history
Flute history features instruments from every part of the earth.
The flute is an ancient instrument, predated only by human voice and drum.
A simple tube with blow holes, it is most often made from wood.
Almost every country on earth has a native flute-like instrument. All are very similar, with the style of music played upon them changing.
The largest change came in the Baroque era of Western art music with the addition of a key system to the flute, creating an instrument that could play in multiple keys and was more in tune with itself. Later in the 20th century, the instrument was constructed from precious metals.
The flute falls into distinct camps...
1) Folk instruments...
Native American flute
2) Classical instruments made from silver, gold, and platinum with an intricate key system.
The classical flute overshadows the folk instruments because of the prominence of art music in our Western culture.
The classical flute is taught in school bands and orchestras. Folk instruments are found in family and local cultures.
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