flauti

Flauti is the Italian plural form of flauto (flute). In music notation, the term refers to the flute family and to the players who perform on these instruments. In orchestral scores, the section marked flauti denotes the flute section; individual instruments may be specified, such as flauto in C, piccolo, alto flute, or bass flute. The family includes the traverso (transverse flute), the piccolo, the alto flute, the bass flute, and occasionally larger members such as contrabass flutes. The term flauti dolci is often used for recorders, a separate wind instrument family, and is distinct from the modern flute.

History and development: Flutes are among the oldest known wind instruments, with examples found in many cultures. The modern concert flute developed from earlier transverse flutes in the 18th and 19th centuries, with major improvements in keywork and bore design. The most influential redesigns came from Theobald Boehm in the 19th century, whose system enhanced tuning, intonation, range, and playing technique, leading to the contemporary instrument used worldwide.

Construction and playing: Modern flauti are typically made of metal (silver, nickel alloy, or other metals) with a keyed cylindrical bore and a headjoint that directs the airstream across a lip plate. Sound is produced by the player's embouchure and airflow, with pitch determined by fingerings and breath control. The flute family covers a wide range of pitches and sizes, enabling a broad repertoire in solo, chamber, and orchestral music.