Wooden keyless flutes, known as “Irish Flutes” are common throughout all Celtic styles. They are an obvious choice for tin whistle players looking for something bit more mellow while also having the power to lead a noisy session. The fingering pattern is exactly the same as a tin whistle, you hold it different and blow in it different but you’re half way there if you know a few tunes on the whistle. Some flutes have keys, adding flexibility to play a greater range of tunes but not essential for most tunes.
Who to Listen to: Matt Molloy, Frankie Kennedy, Brian Finnegan, Michael McGoldrick