Flutes
What is a simple system wooden or 'Irish' flute?
The term 'simple system' refers to conical-bore flute that was in use before Theobald Boehm introduced his cylindrical-bore design in the mid-19th century. With the change to the Boehm system, the old simple system flutes were adopted by Irish traditional musicians and are now known universally as 'Irish flutes'.
Simple system 'Irish' flutes are usually made of timbers such as cocus, grenadilla (aka: African blackwood and mpingo) rosewood, ebony, and boxwood. They have six tone-holes and anywhere from zero to thirteen keys. Many experienced Irish flute players prefer six or eight key flutes, although much of the traditional Irish repertoire may be played on a keyless flute. Tin or penny whistles use exactly the same fingering and are often the instrument upon which flute players begin.
About Martin Doyle’s simple system wooden flutes
Martin Doyle makes two distinct styles of wooden flute – a Celtic style flute and a Traditional style flute.
Celtic style flutes
Celtic style flutes have a subtle and stylish curving contour in the look of the flute, with a slight ’swelling’ at the tenon for strength. They have only one silver ferrule at this joining point, which has a stylised Celtic motif. The Celtic flutes generally remain keyless and the bore is conical. Tuning slides can be added.
Traditional style flutes
Traditional style flutes are tapered with 'straighter lines' and with silver ‘ring’ ferrules at each end of the head-joint and one at the tip of the flute. It is upon these flutes that Martin mounts keys and tuning slides, depending on the customers needs. The bore is conical and they are often sold keyless and without tuning slides.
Keyless Flutes
There are four models of keyless flutes available on demand, all made from the best hardwoods: African Blackwood, Ebony, Cocus and Boxwood. Special order flutes are also available in native Irish and European timbers.
Keyed Flutes
Keyed flutes are made to order with either three, five, six or eight keys. All ferrules and keys are made from silver and tuning slides can be made from either brass or silver. All ferrules, keys and tuning slides are made by Martin in his workshop.
Tuning Slides
All of Martin Doyle's flutes can be fitted with tuning slide, either before or after construction and purchase. The tuning slides are made of Sterling silver and do not line the entire length of the head joint so that the flute can retain the tone of the timber.
Flute Prices
- Flute Prices — prices of Martin Doyle flutes with and without tuning slides and keys.
Wooden Head Joints
- Wooden Head Joints — thin-wall wooden head joints for concert flutes hand-crafted by Martin Doyle from African blackwood, Cocus and Boxwood.
Related Pages
- Testimonials — read what people are saying about Martin Doyle flutes.
- Music — music samples of people playing Martin Doyle flutes.
- FAQ — frequently asked questions answered by Martin Doyle.
- Wooden Flute Care — some simple guidelines for the care and maintenance of wooden flutes.
- Flutes and Workshop — view photographs of Martin Doyle's flutes at his Flickr album.
Agents that stock Martin Doyle Flutes
- All Flutes Plus — London, England.
- Crehan Musical Instruments — Dublin, Ireland.
- KiwiCelt Wooden Flutes — Auckland, New Zealand.