The Development of the Flute as a Solo Instrument from the Medieval to the Baroque Era

Abstract

As one of the oldest instruments known to mankind, the flute is present in some form in nearly every culture and ethnic group in the world. However, in Western music in particular, the flute has taken its place as an important part of musical culture, both as a solo and an ensemble instrument. The flute has also undergone its most significant technological developments in Western musical culture, moving from the bone keyless flutes of the Prehistoric era to the gold and silver instruments known to performers today. During the Renaissance and Baroque periods in particular, however, the flute rose to popularity as a solo instrument and began to evolve into its modern form. New developments in the design and mechanics of the instrument drove this increased interest, which ultimately gave the flute a prominent position in music that has lasted throughout history