fløyten

Fløyten, also known as the Norwegian flute, is a traditional folk musical instrument from Norway. It is a type of end-blown flute, meaning the player blows air across an edge at the top of the instrument rather than through a mouthpiece. Historically, fløyten was often made from wood, such as willow or birch, and typically featured a simple construction with no keys or finger holes. Its sound is often described as clear, pure, and somewhat melancholic, lending itself well to the folk melodies of Norway.

The fløyten was traditionally used for a variety of purposes, including accompanying singing, dancing, and for personal enjoyment. Its construction was often quite basic, allowing for easy portability and creation by local craftsmen. While not as widely known internationally as some other European folk instruments, the fløyten holds a significant place in Norwegian cultural heritage. Modern interpretations and developments of the instrument exist, with some contemporary musicians incorporating it into new musical styles. The technique for playing the fløyten involves precise breath control and finger placement, even without keys, to produce the desired pitches and melodies.