three octaves

Flutes and recorders work like this, the “embouchure” or “window” acting as an open end. On the other hand, in a pipe closed at one end, like a pan flute or a stopped organ pipe, there is always an antinode at the open end and a node at the closed one. ou. etc.

A larger volume vibrates more slowly, for lower pitch; a smaller volume vibrates more quickly, for a higher pitch. For most woodwinds, the player changes pitch by opening and closing holes along the instrument’s length. Closing more holes makes the instrument longer, making the notes lower.

four octaves

Originally, the flute was made with only six holes. The reason for this is that six holes is sufficient to allow the flutist to play seven different pitches (covering one additional hole for each pitch, starting without covering any holes), which constitutes a single key.

All instruments are in a “key”. All instruments in the same key can all play the same note (eg A) and it will sound the same. If you intend on playing the music with others on different instruments (eg flute with piano), it’s not going to work AT ALL if the instrument is in a different key to the flute.

Open Hole Flutes are the Best for Beginners Until they have refined their technique, beginners are better off learning with closed hole (German style) flutes. Also known as plateau holes, closed holes will make the instrument much easier to play for beginners.

Native American style flutes are made in many different keys. The key of the flute is the fundamental (lowest) note that the flute can play. So a flute in the key of A will have a fundamental note that is the same tone as the note A above the middle C on a piano.

C7