Flute

As Printed on a Score

Flute (plural Flutes) labels the flute staff in English-language scores, abbreviated Fl., with player numbers (Flute 1, 2, 3) and any doubling noted in the heading or the instrumentation, for instance a third flute doubling piccolo. It is written at sounding pitch in treble clef.

Abbreviations: Fl.

Also spelled: Flutes

How Composers Use It

Written at pitch from middle C (B with a B foot) to about C7, the flute is the most agile wind and blends with almost everything. Its low register is soft and dark and easily covered, so give low solos a thin accompaniment; the middle is its singing voice and the top octave its brilliant, carrying one. Leave breathing room in long phrases, and in a section mark which player has the solo.

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