Whether you’re looking to get started playing flute or you’ve been a pro for years, you might have heard a lot about open-hole flutes and how they are different from the closed-hole flutes you may have used in the past. Which flute is best?
Which is better: Closed-hole or open-hole flutes?
Open hole flutes are considered to have a richer, more vibrant sound. This is due to the fact that the flute’s airflow is more even. This creates different airflow and harmonics. The open hole flute is a much more difficult fingering, which means a more accurate hand position.
An open holed flute is associated with more advanced students and professionals. Teachers encourage students to change from closed to open flutes at six years of age, as it allows for more flexibility in pitch changes. To plug the holes, some players use plastic bungs. However, this can be uncomfortable.
Another benefit of open holes is that flautists are able to perform glissandi. This is especially useful for jazz music. Also, it is possible to play quarter tones and microtones on an open holed flute.
Open holes have one major drawback: they require a more precise hand position. While this can be beneficial for overall technique, it is not advisable for all students.
Extended techniques for open-holed flutes
Open hole flutes allow flautists to do extended techniques. With a flute, the player can perform glissandi, bends, scoops and more. In addition, they can emulate ethnic flutes.
To play an open hole flute, a flutist must press the key down and seal the embouchure hole. This creates a stronger stream of air. Then, the flutist’s tongue is pushed into the hole to create a percussive effect.
Open hole flutes are lighter than closed hole flutes. This could make them more comfortable for the wrist and shoulders.
Professionals love open hole flutes. However, not everyone likes them. They are usually associated with advanced students. They can make it difficult for students to improve their technique. They can also cause tension in the hands.
Open hole flutes can be used for both speech and playing. In fact, some flute makers create models with left and right hand open holes.
An open hole also offers the possibility to play microtones. This technique is also known by finger vibrato. By using alternate fingerings, a flautist can achieve a woody or soft sound. This technique can be very difficult to control.
Sound quality
One of the most debated questions in the world of flutes is whether to play an open or a close hole flute. The decision is a matter of personal preference. If you are new to flute playing, your choice will be based on what you feel comfortable playing.
When you decide to go with an open hole flute, you will need to adjust your technique. You will need to be capable of sliding off the key to do a glissando. You could end up with a bad note if you’re not careful. Keep in mind that your keys’ holes are not very large. They may leak, so you need to cover them if you are going to use them.
Some flute makers are skilled at designing flutes that combine the best of both worlds. You can find a flute with both open and closed holes. These flutes are usually less expensive than their close hole counterparts.
Plateau-style flutes vs. open-holed flutes
There has been a long-running debate about whether open-hole flute keys are better than plateau-style flute keys. Some players believe that the tone of an open-holed flute is purer. However, no one has been able to prove this.
There are some flute makers who claim that a smaller hole improves pitch. They also claim that an open hole is not a disadvantage.
Flutes with gold or plated keys are the best. They can also be made with metal keys or wood keys. There are several flute manufacturers that produce top quality models with both styles of keys. There is very little difference between them.
Most student flutes use Plateau-style keys. They are considered to be standard in the United States. However, not all student flutes use this key.
Some flute makers manufacture models with open right and left hand holes. This allows some players to expand their techniques with these flutes. Some of these techniques include slides and glissandi.