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Buying a Transverse Flute

The transverse flute is a woodwind instrument, although today it is made with various materials, including alloys of precious metals. It retains its original classification due to its particular timbre, characterized by its elegant, pleasant, and sweet sound. At La Musa Instruments, we offer you a wide inventory to help you buy the right transverse flute to suit your needs.

Family of Transverse Flutes

The instruments that make up the family of transverse flutes are as follows:

• Piccolo or piccolo flute, smaller in size and producing a higher-pitched sound compared to a transverse flute.
• Transverse flute, tuned in C, is the most commonly used in this family.
• Alto flute, tuned in G, is physically similar to the transverse flute but larger in size.
• Bass flute, whose main feature is its end curves over itself. This flute is tuned in C and sounds an octave lower than the transverse flute.

One usual characteristic of the instruments in this family is that they are played laterally, i.e., transversally. They also feature key systems that facilitate fingering.

Characteristics of the Transverse Flute

The operation of a flute is very simple: air is blown through a straight tube that has some side holes and one at the end. The vibration produced by the air as it exits through these holes generates its unique timbre.

The main parts of a transverse flute, also called a flute or transverse flute, are:

• Headjoint. It is the part where the player places their mouth and blows. It can be changed and adjusted to the flutist's preference.
• Body. It is the perforated tube through which the air flows and houses the key mechanism.
• Footjoint. It is the final part where the air is expelled from the instrument, and it may have a key that is fingered with the pinky.

There are two types of flute footjoints: the C foot and the B foot. The former is commonly used by beginners and lacks the extra key found on the B flute foot.

Some transverse flutes have the so-called E mechanism, a feature that makes it easier to play the high E note by closing one of the G keys.

What is the Role of the Transverse Flute in an Orchestra or Band?

In an orchestra, the transverse flute, along with the oboe, clarinet, and bassoon, forms the core of the woodwind section. It is responsible for playing the highest notes, both in solos and accompaniment. Its importance in classical music is reflected by the fact that composers like Mozart and J. S. Bach wrote pieces in which this instrument takes the lead.

The flute is also present in chamber music and quartets, mainly accompanied by string instruments in the latter case. In jazz bands, it has been used occasionally, with Roland Kirk and Tubby Hayes being some of the best-known performers in this genre.

In pop music, its soft and sweet sound has also played a leading role in various pieces, with Ian Anderson of the English band Jethro Tull being perhaps the most famous performer.

Which Transverse Flute to Buy?

When browsing the wide catalog of transverse flutes that we offer in our online store, you may have doubts about which one is right for you. However, with the following tips, this task will surely become easier.

Beginner Transverse Flutes

The beginner transverse flutes are designed for learning this wonderful instrument from the woodwind family. Those in our catalog are made of high-quality materials and feature robust, easily repairable mechanisms.

You can find these models with both straight and curved headjoints, the latter being suitable for children aged 8 to 10. This is because the curved headjoint requires less arm extension for fingering.

Our own brand La Musa offers a wide variety of transverse flutes ideal for beginners, whether children, teenagers, or adults. One standout model is the La Musa E-1 CB Flute with Curved Headjoint, which is designed for easy fingering and includes many accessories.

Intermediate Transverse Flutes

The intermediate transverse flutes are suitable for those who have surpassed the initial learning stage and wish to continue advancing in their flute playing. Therefore, they are often called flutes for advanced students, although they can also be purchased for use in amateur orchestras or bands.

Their headjoints are often made with silver alloys, giving them a more refined and pure sound compared to beginner flutes. They are available in both aligned and offset configurations, and with both B foot and C foot.

Professional Transverse Flutes

If you need an instrument for professional use, you should opt for this type of flute. You can find them in our store at a wide range of prices, depending on the materials used in their construction.

Generally, key sound components are made from precious metals like gold (14 karats) and silver (925 purity). This also provides great stability and durability to the instrument, giving it a unique timbre, sharp attacks, and a solid sound that responds perfectly to register changes.

For example, the Muramatsu 14K G-S-RB-EO Flute is simply a jewel, both in sound and appearance. It offers delicate attacks, a beautiful legato, and a great sound volume thanks to its gold and silver construction.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Family Does the Transverse Flute Belong To?

This instrument belongs to the flute family. It is also part of the woodwind family, even though it is no longer made of wood.

Why is the Transverse Flute a Woodwind Instrument?

The main reason is that its sound complements the note scales of the oboe, clarinet, and bassoon, all of which are woodwind instruments.

How Much Does a Transverse Flute Cost?

As mentioned earlier, the price range of this instrument varies depending on the quality of the materials used in its construction. For example, a cheap transverse flute, such as the La Musa E-1 CB flute, costs around 130 €. A professional transverse flute, such as the Muramatsu 9K G-S-RB-EO Flute, can cost close to 20,000 €.

Where to Buy a Transverse Flute?

In our online store, you will find an unbeatable selection of transverse flutes from the best brands, such as Muramatsu, Miyazawa, and P. Mauriat, among others. And for beginner flutes, you will find the best prices on our own brand, La Musa.

You can buy your transverse flute online at the most competitive price on the market, and try it at home. Our satisfaction guarantee allows you 14 days to return the instrument if it does not meet your expectations.