Flutes (aerophones)

Scope note

Use generically for all confined aerophones sounded by a stream of air from the player's lips striking against the sharp edge of an opening, producing what acousticians term an edge tone. Use also specifically for the Western band, concert, and orchestral side-blown flutes, made of wood or, from the 20th century, more often of metal, in three or more sections, and, from the 20th century, usually though not exclusively equipped with the Boehm system of keywork.