The term simple system flute refers to the type of flute manufactured and favored by classical European musicians during the Classical era, before the development of the Boehm system flute.[1] These flutes are based on the Baroque traverso, a lineage that also gave rise to the traditional Irish flute, and to the flutes used in Cuban charanga bands.[2] For this reason, the term is commonly used to distinguish "traditional" Irish flutes from the modern Boehm-system flute.[3]
Physical characteristics
[edit]The simple system flute had a cylindrical head joint and a reverse tapered body. The six main tone holes were heavily undercut[clarification needed] to produce even intonation and registration while providing even finger spacing.[citation needed] French simple system flutes (or "five-key flutes") from this era typically had five keys that enabled the flute to play in any key. English and German models were typically designed with eight keys: the five of the five-key flute, plus an alternate F key running along the instrument, and two keys on the foot joint to extend the lower register down to middle C.
Related links
[edit]References
[edit]- ^ Pitelina, Katja. "History of the flute". Thebabelflute.com. Retrieved 13 September 2025.
- ^ Valiente, Jessica. "The French-Cuban Charanga Flute" (PDF). nfaonline.org. Retrieved 13 September 2025.
- ^ "Boehm vs Simple System Flute: Key Differences". celticmusic.com. Retrieved 13 September 2025.
Further reading
[edit]- Larsen, Grey (2003). The Essential Guide to Irish Flute and Tin Whistle. Mel Bay Publications. pp. 49–58. ISBN 0-7866-4942-9.